OTHELLO, Wash. — Adams County investigators arrested 19-year-old Presiliano Perez-Pineda in connection with a deadly crash in Othello and booked him on three counts of vehicular homicide.
The crash killed three teenage girls Sunday afternoon.
The victims have been identified as 15-year-olds Yaritzi Flores-Romero, Melissa Romero-Espinoza, and Iris Ramos-Cruz.
Investigators believe the crash may have been intentional, citing a prior relationship between Perez-Pineda and one of the victims. Prosecutors say domestic violence-related charges have been filed tied to that history.
The crash happened in the 2000 block of West Bench Road in Othello, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
During the investigation, drivers were urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes. The road has since reopened, and traffic now moves normally.
In court yesterday, a judge set Perez-Pineda’s bail at one million dollars.
Following that hearing, the Othello School District released a statement saying, “Our hearts are with their families, friends, and all who knew and loved them. This loss is being felt across our schools and throughout our community. We recognize many are grieving.”
Investigators continue working to determine what led to the crash.
This is a developing story.
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