Jamey Dotts Dies in Horrific Crash on Highway 395 [Chewelah, WA]

Chewelah, WA (July 29, 2026) — 55-year-old Jamey Dotts of Kettle Falls was one of two people who lost their lives Tuesday morning after their car crossed the centerline of U.S. Highway 395 and collided head-on with a garbage truck near Chewelah.

According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash happened around 5:15 a.m., about five miles northwest of Chewelah. Investigators said a Chrysler PT Cruiser traveling north veered into the southbound lane for reasons that remain unknown before striking a Sunshine Disposal garbage truck.

The impact caused both vehicles to roll over. The PT Cruiser came to rest in a roadside ditch, while the garbage truck rolled onto the northbound shoulder.

Authorities identified one of the victims as Dotts. The second victim, a 47-year-old woman from Springdale, has not been publicly identified pending notification of her family. Both occupants of the PT Cruiser died at the scene. Investigators have not determined which of the two was driving.

The garbage truck driver, a 34-year-old Chewelah man, was not injured and was not considered at fault. A witness extinguished a small fire that broke out after the collision.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

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Sweet Lawyers extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of Jamey Dotts and the second victim. We hope they find strength, comfort, and peace as they mourn this tragic and unexpected loss.

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Finding Strength and Justice After a Tragic Loss

Losing someone you love in a sudden accident is one of life’s most painful experiences. Beyond the heartbreak, families are often left facing emotional, practical, and financial challenges — from medical bills and funeral costs to the loss of companionship and financial support.

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