Collision by Othello sends 2 to hospital

OTHELLO - A Warden couple was injured after a two-vehicle wreck Friday afternoon.

Benjamin A. Schaffer, 77, and Florence I. Schaffer, 76, both of Warden, were traveling east on state Route 24 around 4 p.m. nearing Bench Road.

A 17-year-old Othello male was heading north on Bench Road at the same time.

Washington State Patrol troopers said the male's 1996 Acura 3.2 TL crossed the road into the path of the Schaffer's 2008 Mercury Milan.

The Schaffers were transported to Othello Community Hospital, where Benjamin Schaffer was treated and released, hospital officials said.

Florence Schaffer was treated and transported to another medical facility, officials said.

The 17-year-old male was not reported injured, nor was a 7-year-old boy riding in the Schaffer's vehicle.

Troopers considered both cars to be total losses, and were towed from the scene.

All parties were wearing seat belts. Drugs or alcohol were not a factor, the patrol said.

The driver of the Acura was cited with failure to yield.

- Staff report