Kennewick teen identified as the pedestrian killed trying to cross Tri-Cities freeway

A Kennewick teen has been identified as the pedestrian struck and killed by a westbound Cadillac while attempting to cross Interstate 182 near Road 100 in Pasco early Tuesday morning.

The Washington State patrol identified the victim as Ethan A. Vargas, 16, of Kennewick.

WSP closed westbound lanes, leading to early morning traffic jams.

The freeway later reopened.

According to the state patrol, George Dvorak, 58, of Pasco, reported the victim was apparently trying to cross the divided highway in front of his 2017 Cadillac XT5. Dvorak called 911 shortly before 4 a.m., said investigators.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

This story was originally published March 12, 2024 at 9:11 AM.