Collision leaves Othello teen dead

OTHELLO - An Othello teenager died in a collision when the vehicle he was riding in collided with a semi truck on state Route 17 Saturday night south of Othello.

A 17-year-old Othello male was driving northbound on the highway in a 2005 Toyota Solaris with passenger Jacksen O. Ashton, 16, Othello, the Washington State Patrol reported.

The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, spun and struck the trailer pulled by the oncoming semi truck.

The collision happened in Franklin County, one mile south of the Franklin and Adams County line.

The 17-year-old driver was transported to Othello Community Hospital for unspecified injuries.

His passenger, Ashton, died at the scene, the state patrol reported.

Efren R. Mojica, 43, Kennewick, was the driver of the semi truck.

According to the state patrol it is unclear if the teens were wearing seat belts.

The state patrol advised the cause of the collision was due to driving too fast for conditions. Citations are pending further investigation.

According to the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office, charges have not been filed against the 17-year-old and no arrests were made.

The 17-year-old male allegedly did not have a Washington state driver's license, the state patrol reported.

The 2005 Toyota Solaris was totaled and towed from the scene.

The 1995 Freightliner semi tractor and trailer reportedly sustained $10,000 worth of damages.