Pedestrian Killed in Federal Way Accident
The pedestrian has been identified as Deejay Tuiasosopo, 16, a Federal Way High School football player who died in a crash on Pacific Highway South.
Candice BondA 16-year-old pedestrian was killed in a crash on Pacific Highway South near South 304th Street in Federal Way on Friday, Oct. 23, according to Federal Way police documents. The teen has been identified as Deejay Tuiasosopo, a football player at Federal Way High School.
What Happened Near Pacific Highway South
Tuiasosopo was standing on a sidewalk when a car struck him after a collision at the intersection. According to court documents, surveillance video showed a Ford F-150 pickup turning left in front of a Lexus sedan coming the other way, and the two vehicles collided. The Lexus went onto the sidewalk and struck Tuiasosopo. Police and firefighters tried to save him, but he died at the scene. Both drivers stayed at the scene.
Where the Federal Way Police Case Stands
The 29-year-old pickup driver was arrested on suspicion of vehicular homicide and has not been charged. Federal Way police documents say breath tests showed the pickup driver's blood alcohol level was above the legal limit. A judge found probable cause for the arrest at a court appearance on Saturday. Police said investigators got a warrant to collect his blood.
In a statement, his family said Tuiasosopo cared about both school and sports. The family has set up a verified fundraiser to support his mother and three younger siblings. His teammates have pledged to honor him for the rest of their season.
Blood test results from a state lab can take weeks. That is why charges in these cases sometimes come well after the crash.
From an earlier interview. General commentary, not about this crash, and not legal advice.Lost someone in a crash like this?
Here is what families in Washington usually need, in the order it comes up.
Death certificates. The funeral home or the family can order them, and banks and insurers each usually want a copy.
Crash report. The crash report is usually ready a few weeks after the crash, and you can still get it later.
Funeral costs. Every state has a victim fund that pays funeral costs after some crashes, and the fund decides who qualifies.
Survivor payments. If the person who died had worked, their spouse or children may get monthly Social Security payments. Applying early matters.
Insurance offer. You can turn down the insurer's first offer and ask for more.
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