With profound sadness, family, friends, and the Connell, Washington, community are mourning the loss of 37-year-old Jessica R. Zarate, who died Tuesday evening, November 10, 2026, following a three-vehicle collision in Franklin County.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:40 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 17 and Booker Road, about 11 miles north of Mesa.
Investigators reported that Jessica was driving a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu southbound on Booker Road when it was struck from behind by a 2015 Toyota Tundra driven by 62-year-old John Daniel Reiss of Kennewick.
The impact pushed Jessica’s Malibu into the intersection, where it was struck by a northbound 2004 Nissan Sentra driven by 28-year-old Edgar Garcia Quirino of Othello.
Tragically, Jessica was pronounced dead at the scene. Three passengers in her vehicle, whose identities were withheld because they were juveniles and their families had not yet been notified, sustained injuries and were transported to Othello Community Hospital. Garcia Quirino was also injured and taken to the hospital.
Authorities reported that drugs or alcohol were involved in the collision. Reiss reportedly escaped injury and was booked into the Franklin County Jail late Tuesday night on a charge of vehicular homicide.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain part of the investigation. The charge against Reiss is an allegation, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Jessica’s sudden passing has left her family, friends, and community grieving a life lost far too soon. Her loved ones now face the difficult days ahead as they remember her and cope with the tragedy.
Heartfelt condolences go out to everyone affected by this devastating loss. May Jessica R. Zarate rest in peace, and may her loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
