Head-on crash blocks I-182 traffic in Pasco

A head-on collision blocked westbound lanes of Interstate 182 in Pasco for more than an hour Thursday morning.

Chandler X. Jenkins, 21, of Richland, was heading east on Interstate 182 in a Subaru Forester, when he crossed the median into the westbound lanes near Argent Road shortly before 11 a.m., the Washington State Patrol said in a traffic memo.

The Forester hit a Range Rover heading west.

One of the cars caught fire, which was put out by firefighters arriving at the scene and then they pried open the cars to get people out.

Investigators have not determined why Jenkins cut across the median. He was cited for second-degree negligent driving.

Jenkins and the other driver, Stephani K. Flynn, 35, of Richland, were taken to Kadlec Regional Medical Center.

Washington State Patrol Trooper Chris Thorson said they had minor to moderate injuries.

This story was originally published April 1, 2021 at 11:37 AM.