Jorge Arevalo-Pena Involved in Deadly Crash on Highway 97 [Pateros, WA]

Woman Killed in Two-Vehicle Hit-and-Run Incident Near Pateros

Pateros, WA (February 2, 2026) — 44-year-old Jorge Arevalo-Pena was involved in a crash where a woman died Saturday evening after two separate vehicles struck her at a highway junction near Pateros, and authorities are now searching for the other drivers involved.

The Washington State Patrol said the collision occurred around 7:15 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 97 and State Route 153. A pickup truck driven by Arevalo-Pena struck the woman as she stood in the northbound lane of the roadway.

Moments later, another vehicle traveling southbound hit the woman and fled the scene without stopping. Arevalo-Pena remained at the location and contacted authorities, who arrived shortly afterward.

Emergency responders pronounced the woman dead at the scene. Officials have not yet released her identity while they notify her family. Neither Arevalo-Pena nor his passenger sustained injuries, and investigators have not filed charges against him.

Troopers continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information about the second vehicle or its driver to come forward.

Sweet Lawyers extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the woman who lost her life in this tragic incident. We hope they find strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.

When a Fatal Traffic Accident Shatters Lives

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