Wenatchee, WA - Amelia Montoya, Michael W Meacham Killed in Fatal Collision on SR-28

Wenatchee, WA (February 13, 2025) – The Washington State Patrol released the identity of a bus passenger who lost her life along with three others in a two-vehicle crash on Sunday afternoon, February 9. According to a news release, 83-year-old Amelia Montoya of Spokane Valley lost her life when the charter bus she was a passenger in crashed head-on with a sedan on State Route 28. The bus driver, Michael W. Meacham, 66, and two 17-year-old occupants of the sedan also lost their lives in the accident. Montoya lost her life after being transported to Confluence Health Hospital in Wenatchee, while the other three victims died at the scene. Police say the accident happened when the 17-year-old female driver attempted to pass the vehicle in front of her and collided with the bus. Seven other passengers were hurt in the collision and transported to Confluence Health Hospital for treatment. The highway was closed for over ten hours while responders worked at the scene. Drivers were stuck as there was no available detour in the area. Police in Wenatchee continue to investigate. 

We want to offer our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased victims at this time.

Bus Accidents in Washington

Bus accidents can significantly vary in cause and severity, often depending on factors like driver behavior, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and external causes. Some common reasons bus accidents occur in the US and the state of Washington include: 

• Driver error: Distracted driving, speeding, failure to obey traffic signs and signals, and fatigue are all common causes of bus collisions in the US today. 
• Reckless driving: Numerous bus collisions happen due to reckless driving by other vehicles, misjudging the stopping or turning distance of a bus, or cutting in front of buses. 
• Weather conditions: Snow, rain, and fog can reduce visibility and create slick roads, increasing the risk of collisions. 

In 2021, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reported over 48,000 bus collisions in the US. Out of these, over 2,000 were fatal, resulting in over 220 fatalities. Approximately 10,000 collisions lead to approximately 18,000 injuries that same year. 

In Seattle, Washington, over 300 bus accidents were reported in 2020. In Vancouver, bus crash numbers have fluctuated in recent years. In 2021, 23 bus crashes were reported, with one resulting in significant injuries. The following year, 25 bus accidents were reported. In 2023, the number decreased to 16 crashes, with two ending in serious injuries. 

At Freeman Law Firm, Inc., we work hard to help crash victims and their loved ones recover after serious accidents. You may be going through a troubling time in the aftermath of your crash, especially if your injuries are severe. Contact a car crash attorney in Wenatchee who can help you file a compensation claim. 

Losing a loved one in a fatal crash is a devastating experience. You may be wondering where you can turn for help during this trying time. A wrongful death attorney in Wenatchee can help you file a claim for funeral costs and more. 

Call us at 206-880-2454 to speak with a reputable attorney about your case. We are here to guide you through this challenging time and ensure you receive the support and compensation necessary for your recovery.