Dayton man killed in two-vehicle crash near Washtucna

Pullman, WALocal News

A Dayton man, Matthew L. Cunnington, 24, died in a two-vehicle crash on Washington State Route 26 near Washtucna on Thursday at 11:03 a. m. The Washington State Patrol reported that Cunnington failed to stop at a stop sign while traveling southbound on Marcellus Road, resulting in a collision with another vehicle traveling westbound on SR 26. Both vehicles came to rest off the roadway, and the other driver was uninjured.

The crash led to a closure of the road as emergency crews responded, with drivers detoured to alternate routes via Washington State Route 260 and Route 261. This incident highlights ongoing traffic safety concerns in the region, particularly at stop sign intersections. Local authorities may need to consider evaluating road signage and traffic control measures to enhance safety. Traffic accidents at intersections can often result in severe outcomes, making preventative measures crucial. Increased public awareness and adherence to traffic rules can also play a significant role in reducing such incidents.

Related Articles

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.