Washtucna teen injured in Adams County collision

A Washtucna teenager was injured Wednesday afternoon in a collision about nine miles south of Ritzville in Adams County, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Jeffery S. Zupan, 18, of Washtucna, was driving too fast for conditions, while northbound on state Route 261, in a white 2006 Buick LaCrosse just before 1:49 p.m., the WSP reported.

Zupan failed to negotiate a curve because of his speed, the WSP said, and the vehicle crossed the center line and struck a gray 2008 Toyota Tundra driven by Kurtis W. Klein, 19, of Edwall.

Zupan was flown to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane for his injuries. He was not wearing a seat belt and charges may be filed with the Adams County Prosecutor’s Office by the WSP. His vehicle was totaled.

Klein was uninjured and wore a seat belt. His truck had reportable damage.

The WSP deemed the cause as speed. It was unknown by press time whether drugs or alcohol were involved.