Department of Energy’s Hanford Site Crash Turns Deadly [Hanford Site, WA]

Hanford Site, WA (July 11, 2026) — A driver died after crashing into the Wye Barricade gate at the Department of Energy’s Hanford Site on Wednesday evening, leaving two Hanford Patrol officers injured.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to the crash shortly before 7:00 p.m. on July 8. When deputies arrived, they found that a vehicle had collided with the entrance gate, injuring two Hanford Patrol officers.

Emergency crews transported the injured officers to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The Benton County Coroner later confirmed that the driver died in the crash.

Authorities closed the Wye entrance to the Hanford Site following the incident, while the Yakima Barricade remained open with expected traffic delays.

The Hanford Field Office and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office continue to investigate the cause of the collision.

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Sweet Lawyers extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. We also wish the injured Hanford Patrol officers a full and speedy recovery. Serious crashes can have lasting effects on everyone involved, and we hope the ongoing investigation provides answers and support for those affected.

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