Story Published: Jun 13, 2007 at 6:41 PM PDT
Story Updated: Jun 13, 2007 at 6:41 PM PDT
The Washington State Patrol said two men were transported to a local hospital when a 2006 Nissan Titan hit a farm combine head-on and then struck a 1997 Ford F-150 following the combine.
"The driver of the combine was ejected through the window and hit the windshield of the Titan,” said Asotin County Deputy Jeff Polillo.
The driver of the combine was 19-year-old Justin D. Petz of Pullman. He was transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center with head injuries and was listed in fair condition Wednesday. Petz's father, 50-year-old Ardel D. Petz, also of Pullman, was following behind as a caution vehicle. He was uninjured.
The driver of the Titan was 70-year-old Andrew P. Pringle of Lubbock, Texas. He was also taken to St. Joe's with minor injuries.
Polillo said other motorists reported seeing Pringle narrowly missing other vehicles just before the collision.
"Other witnesses saw the Titan driving westbound on the highway swerving off and on from Idaho to this location here,” said Polillo.
Polillo said the accident is a good reminder to be cautious when sharing the roads with farmers and their vehicles.
"Within the county, especially from Pomeroy and this area, we do have a lot of farm equipment and you need to be cautious,” he said.
WSP said Ardel Petz and Pringle were both wearing seat belts.
The accident is still under investigation by WSP and charges are pending.
