Single-vehicle crash near St. John kills one, sends three to hospital Saturday

A tragic single-vehicle crash near St. John resulted in the death of Sonia Leas, 50, on Saturday afternoon. The accident occurred on Thorn Creek Road when the vehicle, carrying four occupants, lost control and struck a culvert, becoming airborne before landing back on its wheels. The driver, Teresa Leas, 76, and passenger Sonia Leas were airlifted to Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, where Sonia later died from her injuries during transport. Richard Leas and Austin Coniber, the other occupants, were taken to Whitman Hospital & Medical Clinics for minor injuries and subsequently released.

The Whitman County Sheriff's Office confirmed the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have notified the next of kin regarding Sonia Leas's passing. The crash highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in the area. Local officials may implement further measures to improve safety on Thorn Creek Road as a result of this incident.