April 27, 2023 / Source: Columbian
The Washington State Patrol reported a motor vehicle crash in Vancouver. The accident happened at milepost 8 at around 9:45 p.m.
Johnny M Kienbaum, 38, of Kelso, was operating a Jeep Liberty when it ran out of fuel and came to a stop in the left lane. Marguerite V Brooks, 79, of Vancouver was operating a Toyota Camry when it collided with the Jeep’s rear.
According to the WSP, Brooks and her four passengers were injured and taken to PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Centre. The passengers were identified as Patricia H Turner, 88, of Kennewick, Helen L Keller, 81, Sandra K Taylor, 87, and Jeanette M Baker, 87.
Baker was declared dead at the hospital. Both Kienbaum and his passenger, 15-year-old Jayden L. Kienbaum, were unharmed.
Johnny Kienbaum was charged with second-degree careless driving by the investigators. Alcohol and drugs played no part in the fatal crash.