Three Othello High School Students Killed in Targeted Rollover Crash; Suspect Arrested
Othello WA – A community is in mourning after a horrific hit-and-run collision in Othello, Washington, claimed the lives of three 15-year-old girls. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a 19-year-old suspect, identified as an ex-boyfriend of one of the victims, in connection with the fatal incident.
Incident Summary and Investigation
The tragedy unfolded on Sunday, April 26, near Bench Road. Deputies responded to reports of a rollover collision and discovered a vehicle submerged in an irrigation canal.
According to investigators, the crash was not an accident. Evidence including surveillance footage and witness statements revealed that a white Mercedes sedan was traveling at high speeds when it intentionally struck the victims’ vehicle. The force of the impact caused the car to roll into the canal, ejecting all three occupants.
Remembering the Victims
The Othello School District confirmed that all three girls were students at Othello High School. Family members and community advocates have identified the young victims through memorial funds:
- Yaritzi “Yari” Flores-Romero (15)
- Melissa Romero-Espinoza (15)
- Iris Ramos Cruz (15)
The loss of these three sophomores has prompted an outpouring of grief across the region, with local schools offering counseling services to students and faculty.
Suspect Arrested and Facing Multiple Charges
The driver of the Mercedes sedan, identified as 19-year-old Presiliano Perez-Pineda, allegedly fled the scene of the crash immediately following the impact.
Following a search, authorities located and apprehended Perez-Pineda. He is currently facing the following legal charges:
- Three counts of Vehicular Homicide.
- Domestic Violence Enhancement: One of the homicide charges carries this enhancement due to Perez-Pineda’s previous romantic relationship with one of the victims.
Community Support
Two GoFundMe campaigns have been established to assist the families of Yaritzi Flores-Romero, Melissa Romero-Espinoza, and Iris Ramos Cruz with funeral expenses. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office continues to process evidence from the scene as they finalize the case for the prosecution.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends during this time of tragic loss. We stand with our community in offering our sincere thoughts and prayers to all those affected.
