Driver David Klein and 2 Others Killed in Highway 97 Collision [Douglas County, WA]

Douglas County, WA (May 3, 2026) – David Klein, 22, and Ella Weaver, 20, both from Orcas Island, were killed in a Highway 97 collision late Friday night.

A three-vehicle crash happened past 9 p.m. on May 1, south of Beebe Bridge.

Troopers said a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Derek Rairdan, 47, of Republic, was southbound on the freeway when it crossed into the northbound lane.

As a result, Rairdan’s vehicle struck an oncoming 2001 Honda Civic occupied by Eugene Renner of Omak and Dario Martinez of Bridgeport, both 53.

The Silverado then struck another northbound vehicle, a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by Klein.

Police responded to the crash scene and declared Rairdan, who was the only occupant of his vehicle. Troopers also declared Klein, and his passenger, Weaver, deceased at the scene.

Moreover, Renner and Martinez were treated at Lake Chelan Health.

In the meantime, WSP officers are conducting a further investigation into the deadly crash.

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Sweet Lawyers expresses sympathies to the families of David Klein, Ella Weaver, and Derek Rairdan. Our hearts are with you through these trying times.

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What Can Be Done Following Highway 97 Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash

Each year, around 20-50 million people are injured or killed due to an auto crash.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reckless driving is a leading cause of traffic accidents, accounting for approximately 33% of all crashes. These accidents result in thousands of deaths and injuries each year, highlighting the urgent need for stricter enforcement and increased awareness campaigns to combat this dangerous behavior on the roads.

Steve Baric of Sweet Lawyers says, “The most valuable step you can take in response to a vehicle crash is hiring a personal injury or a wrongful death attorney. Our attorneys prioritize your recovery. At the same time, they will secure your future from further losses a severe accident can bring.”

Call us if you or a loved one were involved in a severe traffic accident. Sweet Lawyers has over four decades of experience in the legal field and certainly knows what it takes to win your traffic accident case.

We promise to fight for justice and compensation you and your family deserve. Call our offices at (800) 674-7852 or click this link for a free consultation with a professional in your area.

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