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Update: 1 dead, 2 hurt in 2-vehicle head-on crash at 37th/Admiral

March 21, 2010 2:13 am
|      120 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

(cameraphone photo added 2:40 am)
ORIGINAL 2:13 AM REPORT: Thanks to the person who called to be sure we’d seen this on the 911 log – minutes after it appeared: Fire and police crews are working a “heavy rescue” call at 37th/Admiral (map), a crash with two vehicles involved, according to the scanner, with extrication(s) under way. We’re off to the scene to see what we can find out; Admiral is closed at that spot, so stay away.

2:34 AM UPDATE: Co-publisher Patrick is at the scene and describes it as a “huge” response of police and fire. Meantime, via the scanner here at HQ, we have just heard the first medical report on 2 victims – a 29-year-old man who got out of one of the vehicles on his own, injuries include a fracture. And authorities also have reported one person killed.

2:52 AM UPDATE: Police at the scene confirm that the total is 1 dead, 2 hurt, both going to the hospital. They tell us that it appears so far that the pickup truck was coming up the Admiral Way hill (northbound) while the SUV was going down the hill (southbound), at least one of the vehicles speeding, when the SUV crossed into the truck’s path, and they collided. Admiral is closed from Belvidere to Olga, and since this is a deadly crash, it’s likely to be closed for hours. (The last deadly crash in West Seattle was less than 2 weeks ago, a 1-car crash the night of March 9th on 16th SW.)

3:03 AM UPDATE: Authorities at the scene aren’t saying (and we’re not even certain if they yet know) anything about the gender or age of the person who was killed. Scanner information indicated the 2nd survivor, who like the 1st has been rushed to Harborview Medical Center, was a “middle-aged” man, whose injuries included fractures.

4 AM UPDATE: Adding our clip from the scene – same angle as the photo above, but gives you more context on exactly where it happened. This was shot from behind the yellow-tape line (the only other media photographer there while we were, from KING 5, was immediately to our left):

We’ll check back on Admiral’s status in a few hours; police will likely have an official writeup by then too.

9:40 AM UPDATE: The short item at SPDBlotter has two additional bits of information: The person who died was the SUV’s driver, while the two survivors were the driver and passenger in the pickup; also, police say alcohol may have been a factor as well as speed. No further information has been released about any of the three.

(Photo by David Rosen from SlickPix Photography, as rescuers worked to get one of the survivors out of the pickup)

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120 Replies to "Update: 1 dead, 2 hurt in 2-vehicle head-on crash at 37th/Admiral"

  • JanS March 21, 2010 (2:20 am)

    lots and lots of sirens in the ‘hood a few minutes ago

  • Diane March 21, 2010 (2:41 am)

    ach, so awful, so close; heard tons of sirens, just few blocks away on 37th

  • JanS March 21, 2010 (2:46 am)

    this is so sad…seems that it’s happening almost every weekend lately somewhere in West Seattle.

  • RestinPeace March 21, 2010 (2:49 am)

    We live blocks away and have been listening to some very eerie noises that have been freaking me out for the last 45 minutes. I don’t know what the jaws of life sound like but it’s either that or the noise of them flipping cars back over. It was loud and drawn out metal creaking noises.

  • WSB March 21, 2010 (2:54 am)

    RP, neither flipped so far as Patrick has seen but they definitely have been and will be using extrication equipment – I’m on the phone with P and he says that there’s also lots of noise from the generators running powering lights on the wreckage (note the one in our photo) and engines from the police/fire vehicles – most of the latter are pulling out now since the 2 survivors have gone to the hospital – but police will be on scene for quite some time – TR

  • Diane March 21, 2010 (2:58 am)

    that’s by my bus stop, just few blocks away; cars fly around that curve when I’m waiting for bus; even bus comes down so fast they have to slam on brakes to stop for me

  • J242 March 21, 2010 (3:20 am)

    I was driving behind the truck involved tonight and was on the scene moments after the crash. I just got home a few minutes ago (Emergency workers and the Fire Department had me blocked in, I’m not complaining at all, this is far too important for anyone to complain about being delayed for an hour…) and I have a suggestion for that corner. What if we put in three sets of speed bumps? Right before the turn in for the scenic view, right in the middle of the curve and then 100 yards afterwards (Going up Admiral that is) as well?

    Thoughts? Is there anyone we can contact about seeing if that’s a possibility? It might help a lot with all of the cars always speeding around that curve as the speed indicator seems to be ignored by most.

  • RestinPeace March 21, 2010 (3:21 am)

    Well the first time we heard the loud metallic creaking was about 10 minutes after the sirens stopped. Then we heard it maybe two or three times after that at maybe 5 to 10 minute intervals. It sounds like it was more likely the jaws of life. Maybe it was equipment being moved into place but it sounded more like metal being bent. It was a loud metallic creaking. I would be glad if it was the rescuers moving generators into place because as I said it was freaking me out. It thankfully stopped a long time ago though.

  • WSB March 21, 2010 (3:23 am)

    J242, as I understand it, speed bumps/humps are not allowed on major arterials. (Beach Drive, which has some, is a “minor” arterial.) However, there *is* an Arterial Traffic Calming Program, with contacts listed, and that would be the place to start:
    http://www.cityofseattle.net/Transportation/ntcp_arterial.htm

  • Diane March 21, 2010 (3:50 am)

    Good suggestion J242, and glad you’re ok
    ~
    thanks TR for the link
    so this page about Physical Traffic Calming Devices, gives as an option Speed Cushions (never heard of but have driven over many; I thought they were just another version of speed bump)
    http://www.cityofseattle.net/Transportation/ntcp_physical.htm
    ~
    so wonder if we could get these:
    Speed Cushions – Similar to speed humps, speed cushions are divided into sections so that wide wheelbase vehicles can straddle them. As such, they can more easily accommodate transit, fire engines, and other emergency response vehicles.
    ~
    but then, does that mean the big SUV’s (and my bus) can also just go flying over them?

  • cathyw March 21, 2010 (7:49 am)

    This is a terrible tragedy and my heart goes out to those affected.

    Regarding the road conditions there, from the WSB video you can see that the curve is right above the Admiral Way Viewpoint (don’t know it’s real name). My guess is that the road there has settled toward the cliff over the years. Because of that, the curve is very poorly banked at that spot. When you drive around the curve, it almost feels as if your car speeds up and is being pulled into the oncoming lane. I have to pay attention in order to stay in the lane.

    Another good reason why the speed limit there is 30 mph – even though none of us likes it.

  • s.thompson March 21, 2010 (7:55 am)

    please stop driving like your crazy,slow down or you will be next.I see people every day living on the edge they don’t care if live or die.does life mean anything today,i prefer not to die if it is caused by some idiot stuck on stupid. live for tomorrow.

  • mark March 21, 2010 (8:25 am)

    Very sad. I have never been there at 2am but I can tell you that at 6am weekdays the cars just FLY right by there. If SPD ever decided to enforce anything CLOSE to the speed limit they could balance the city budget in a matter of weeks. Sad, but it was going to happen, either a pedestrian or this.

  • picot March 21, 2010 (9:28 am)

    The neighborhood to the north of the look out has been in fear of this stretch for decades. The people of WS drive way too fast and without disregard for life when coming and going on Admiral. This could have been one of our kids, one of our families. We beseech the city to find a solution to this deadly, deadly turn. Please, how many must die? The speed sign coming up the hill is not the solution.

  • mark March 21, 2010 (9:33 am)

    Picot, I live south of Admiral but have seen anyone who has to cross Admiral that lives North between say, 41st and 37th risk their lives to catch a bus in the morning. I have written the city about the need for a crosswalk, but have never received even the courtesy of a reply. The way the street is set up now, and with the lack of speed limits enforced its when, not if, someone else gets hit.

  • 22blades March 21, 2010 (9:34 am)

    This is a very sad situation that many of us saw coming. I agree with the many people above about the excessive speed around this bend. I am not a Civil Engineer but I think this corner can’t even handle 25 mph. It’s a flat corner at best, eastbound and crowned “the wrong way” westbound. Combine that with people speeding around a blind corner at up to 40 mph on average, cars entering from Olga, a bus stop and a switched crosswalk, it’s a recipe for an accident much less a fright. In the morning, West Seattlites must take the most blame. The westbound crown is so excessive, busses will slow down just to make it around the bend. PEOPLE, PLEASE SLOW DOWN ON ADIMARAL. PLEASE.

  • JSR March 21, 2010 (9:41 am)

    I can’t tell from the photos – what color was the truck? black? While speed may have been a factor, I am betting on alcohol as a bigger factor, and speed bumps are not going to help that.

    • WSB March 21, 2010 (9:44 am)

      JSR – green.

  • cjboffoli March 21, 2010 (9:44 am)

    Police speed traps farther down the hill seem to have been very effective in getting people to obey the speed limit. I know I think about it every time I go down that part of Admiral. Maybe they just need to move their speed traps up to that curve.

  • ws March 21, 2010 (9:52 am)

    This is heartbreaking. So sad for the loss of life. Regarding enforcement there are comments about SPD not enforcing and this is false. I have seen SPD there several times giving tickets often in their Dodge Chargers. They can’t be parked here every minute of the day they don’t have the resources. As well, the car went over the center line we don’t know how fast he/she was going. We don’t know what was involved yet, exhaustion, heart attack, cell phone. I think its always good to discuss these things but I am always surprised by the quick rush to judgment too. Thanks to the first responders for the work you did last night.

  • mark March 21, 2010 (10:00 am)

    WS, I have never seen SPD any place close to the area mentioned. Down at the bottom of Admiral yes, but that’s it. If they ever started enforcement at the morning rush hour they would have carpal tunnel by the end of their shift. Get out there and you might change your opinion about being quick to judge.

  • JSR March 21, 2010 (10:08 am)

    Thank you, WSB. Big scare here, as I am out of town and my husband is often on the road coming or going to work at that hour. It’s a reminder that tragically, someone’s loved one has died, and I send much love and many prayers to his/her survivors.

    WS: rush to judgement? A crash just after 2 am? At least twice a year a parked car near my house on admiral way will be wiped out in the middle of the night. Percentage of incidents involving alcohol? Of those known (i.e. not H&R): 100%.

    • WSB March 21, 2010 (10:26 am)

      Also JSR, and anyone else who wondered, there’s a little bit better view of the pickup truck in the photo we just added to the bottom of the story – the photographer was on the other side of the wreckage – TR

  • Bettytheyeti March 21, 2010 (10:16 am)

    With regards to the traffic calming devices; our neighborhood tried to have cushions installed on 48th Avenue SW even though its a minor arterial SDOT said no. WSB is correct that Beach Drive is both a bus route and arterial with a speed cushion. They have a cushion because of drag racing, cross walks, near fatalities and more importantly proximity to million $$ homes. So the Admiral has 2 out of 3 of those. FYI SDOT suggested a solar $17K speed reader at the top of Erskine. Speed Cushions cost a lot less.

  • Krystal March 21, 2010 (10:17 am)

    I totally support doing something about speeding here. Yesterday, I was going up the hill at 33mph, and people in front of me were going 45, seriously. Must have been the nice weather (I had a speeding ticket 2 years ago on the WS Bridge–it was a beautiful day and I had just gotten off work, which is no excuse!)

    I don’t live in this neighborhood, but maybe at the next neighborhood meeting, someone can suggest a few speed traps. We all hate them, I know, just as we hate going 30, but it might be something in the meantime before the city can agree to do something structural to the area.

  • BH March 21, 2010 (10:43 am)

    My girlfriend and myself were first on the scene last night. I am an ICU nurse. The driver of the truck was pretty much dead on impact. I got there with in seconds of the accident and got into the truck to check on him. No pulse and no way to get him out to do CPR. The other car the two people were disoriented yet awake with injuries that did not appear to be life threatening. Although I have to say I am not sure how either survived the crash, had it been a smaller car they would have been killed. I have to say my girlfriend did an amazing job with the people in the truck. ( not having the training I do in situations like this).
    I would like to say that I was a little taken back by the people that were taking pictures of the accident and posting them on the NET… People please have some respect for the accident victims. How would you like to be see the picture of your loved one before you ever got word that there was an accident and they died or were critically injured. NOT COOL WEST SEATTLE BLOG… NOT COOL…. Save the picture for the next day when the next of kin can be notified….

  • EyeLiveInWestSeattle March 21, 2010 (11:03 am)

    You know… it was WestSeattleBlog that just a couple weeks ago, posted a WARNING about a speed trap set up by SPD on Admiral. How does that feel now, WSB? When I saw that post on the blog, I found it completely irresponsible. If people feel the need to speed, they need to be pulled over, fair and square.
    .
    Stop lights aren’t the answer… it’s about getting people to realize they CAN NOT speed here. I vote for a photo trap that can give out tickets for speeding around that curve. Also, widening the area a bit would help, especially on the curve. The south/east side of the road could be expanded on the curve enough to give each of the non-bike lanes an additional 12 inches. That’s a huge difference.
    .
    People speed on this stretch every day. I live here, and I see it everyday. I would be happy if SPD set up speed traps more often. I love seeing them pulling over those that prefer to put everyone else at risk, and I applaud SPD when they do set up mulitple units to grab a few at a time.

    Try crossing Admiral between Olga and the bridge during rush hour. That’s tons of fun, and there are people that have to do it when they get off the bus.

  • Karl March 21, 2010 (11:10 am)

    Don’t Drink & Drive

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (11:28 am)

    Um, speeding doesn’t cause crashes. People DUIing and crossing into oncoming lanes causes crashes. This endorsement of the police state regarding cracking down on “speeding” is naive to say the least.

  • OneMoreIdiotFromWS March 21, 2010 (11:28 am)

    “First to the scene!” Yeah, way to go, WSB.

  • chas redmond March 21, 2010 (11:32 am)

    Hate to say it, BH, if it happens in public space it’s public.

  • Dan\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'a March 21, 2010 (11:32 am)

    This stretch of road scares me so badly I will go along the beach to get to my house instead. It a bit of time to my trip, but it makes me feel a lot easier.
    I have said it before, and I will say it again, I think there needs to be a center barrier down Admiral from that curve and stopping at the point where people need to pull onto the Admiral from the are of Luna Park. Barriers keep traffic from crossing AND slow people down.
    People speeding up to ascend Admiral combined with the gathering speed of people going down the hill is so dangerous and a ripe condition for a head on collision. Add in texting, drunk driving, excessive speed, random distractions etc and this becomes a stretch of road I avoid as much as possible.
    I am so sorry for the people who were hurt in this crash. I hope it is a wake up call to the city that something needs to be done.

  • OneMoreIdiotFromWS March 21, 2010 (11:48 am)

    Hey SAL9, I think we have to have the police because we live amongst stupid people. If you want to think of it as a police state, crawl back under your rock and stay there. Best of luck.

  • cjboffoli March 21, 2010 (11:50 am)

    BH: Thanks for your efforts at the scene last night. In my experience as a news gatherer, the WSB editors are very careful about not showing revealing images of accident victims. And looking at the images and video from early this morning, this coverage was consistent with that longstanding policy.

  • alki_2008 March 21, 2010 (12:24 pm)

    Having a speed limit, and enforcing it during “morning rush hour” is only going to make people who live in West Seattle pay more attention to their speeds while going up/down the hill. It’s naive to think it’s going to affect the way drunk people drive. If someone’s drunk or otherwise inattentive (cell phone, texting, etc)…then they’re not going to care what the speed limit is.
    .
    And enforcing speed limits during rush hour isn’t going to affect the driving behavior of people that come to West Seattle to enjoy the nice weather (like yesterday)…since those folks would have no idea about the rush-hour speeding enforcement.
    .
    I don’t know if drinking was a factor in this accident, or maybe the SUV driver had a heart attack…but I did know as soon as this news item was posted last night (this morning) that the “speeding on Admiral Hill” debate was going to start over again…even without a conclusion that speeding was the cause of this accident.
    .
    Some things are too predictable. :-(

  • J242 March 21, 2010 (12:30 pm)

    The speed cushion is a good call but someone mentioned the photo capture system? That I support far more. With all of the people speeding around there (Living out here in Admiral, I can’t recall how many times I’ve almost been hit by vehicles going in the same direction either east-bound or west-bound because they were speeding and driving like idiots) I think that would be an excellent option as well. It would probably pay itself off in no time flat.

    Let’s face it, that’s a dangerous curve in broad daylight when there’s dry road let alone during wet or dark conditions because of the way people drive like idiots. A ticket for speeding should that is generated without having to have any officers present would be a good way to slow that area down really quick I think. It’s a lot better than accidents, that’s for sure.

  • AdmiralWestSeattle March 21, 2010 (1:00 pm)

    I get honked at while turning off Admiral onto 38th just after that curve. It’s as though me turning onto my street is somehow pissing off someone behind me! I am nervous enough as it is, and I get honked at for turning onto my street. Sheesh.

    I won’t ride the bus anymore because I have to cross Admiral and there are NO CROSSWALKS!!!!

  • coffee March 21, 2010 (1:14 pm)

    My question is, if the driver was over the limit, and the driver that caused the crash had recently left a bar or party, is that bar, or party liable for overserving? I am not sure if its different when it is a private residence vs. a business. If the serving establishment is liable, then does the city come after that establishment?

  • Carraig na splinkeen March 21, 2010 (1:20 pm)

    Whether or not speed was a factor in this crash, it’s important to clarify what SAL9000 said.
    Speeding unto itself may not “cause” crashes but the severity of a crash will be far worse at higher speeds (Physics 101). Speeding, and red light running for that matter, whether alcohol or drugs are involved has a significant negative affect on the outcome.

  • G. Ramirez March 21, 2010 (1:21 pm)

    This is to S. Thomson, I’m sure you have never done anything illegal, made bad choices, or just been human and had an accident before. But I would appreciate the name calling comments stopped. I’m sure coming from a person like you of such perfect upbringing and flawless past that might be hard. The driver that died was my nephew, and I am very proud of him and the things he has done in his life. Yes, maybe mistakes were made but as the other people have commented, a life was lost and he was loved by many.

  • travis_bickle March 21, 2010 (1:22 pm)

    What? Someone lost their life, and alcohol “may” have played a part in it? This is the first I’ve ever heard of alcohol being dangerous. Good thing that deadly marijauna is illegeal. Just imagine if the person was high on that stuff!
    Wheww- I need a drink.
    (insert sarcastic tone)
    I hate hearing about stories like this. My heart goes out to the INNOCENT people involved.

  • Krystal March 21, 2010 (1:23 pm)

    I agree about the drunk driving points too, even if people aren’t speeding, drunk driving is deadly.

    I think that some of that has to do with the police, but for the most part, it seems that the courts and justice system are the ones who go easy on drunk drivers. It seems that someone has to be killed by a drunk driver before it is seriously punished by the courts.

    I think it is okay to warm people about speed traps on public forums–whatever makes people more aware of their driving is fine with me.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (2:03 pm)

    The single largest factor of death and serious injury accidents is the choice of DUI. Make no mistake – DUI is such a major problem in the US because of the hilarious weak-kneed approach as taken by our legal system. There was a story recently of local getting 8 years for killing 4 in a DUI crash. LOL – What a joke. Going jihad for speed and red light cameras isn’t an answer (to anything). You want safer roads vote for those who will treat crime as crime not as a byproduct of a “disease.”

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (2:16 pm)

    To expand further the courteous and cursory physics lesson of Carraig na splinkeen, yes, greater vehicle speed will make a crash worse, as kinetic energy (KE) is a function of the square of velocity – a car traveling 60 mph has 4 times the KE of a car traveling 30 mph (the dissipation of KE is what causes damage in a crash). So given the practical fact that crashes WILL ALWAYS happen, the slower people are going the less the damage will be, is sound. However, PREVENTING those crashes in the first place is logically the more prudent step. The illogical emphasis on speed enforcement is actually a DIVERSION to the former.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (2:33 pm)

    And lets not kid ourselves on the character of the driver that caused the crash. If a DUI (which is highly likely) he is a knuckle-dragging piece of garbage.

  • J242 March 21, 2010 (2:44 pm)

    SAL9000, from being on the scene, I can tell you there was no way to assume “who” caused the crash. It could have been either vehicle and there’s no absolute as to whether or not either driver was “drunk”. It’s easy to assume but there are many possibilities so until there is a formal statement made by the SPD after an investigation with toxicology reports, etc perhaps we shouldn’t jump to any conclusions. Think about it, what if the SUV had a tire blow-out that caused their vehicle to swerve into the oncoming lane? We don’t know the facts yet… I’m just saying…

  • Amanda March 21, 2010 (2:44 pm)

    So it appears that the driver of the SUV that crossed over the line – they and their passenger survived. But the guy coming down the hill not crossing the line died. So how does it happen that the drunk (presumably) ones live, and the (presumably) sober one dies?

    Stop drinking and driving.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (3:03 pm)

    In my defense, I point out that I had written “If a DUI…” But let’s be serious, 80%+ chance it was DUI.

  • Irukandji March 21, 2010 (4:30 pm)

    Somehow I slept thru this one. Maybe it’s time for me to write the city again now that we have a death and ask them if one is enough, or if we need a few more deaths here before they’ll consider speed calming measures. As yet, they haven’t been able to give me a quantity on how much damage and how many dead are needed before they take the community needs for the Admiral Way Viewpoint area seriously.

  • Anonymous March 21, 2010 (4:40 pm)

    @Amanda, you have it backwards. The SUV driver died and the Pickup driver and passenger survived.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (5:04 pm)

    @Irukandji

    I inject once again the problem wasn’t speeding. The problem was DUI…

  • Dave March 21, 2010 (5:10 pm)

    Sal9000, speed was a factor. I’m always amazed driving that stretch of road, I could be going 95 and some idiot would be tailing me 5 inches off the rear bumper.

  • seg March 21, 2010 (5:14 pm)

    I don’t know any of the details of this tragic accident, or if alcohol was involved or not. I am very sorry for everyone’s pain that has come from this. Since a lot of drunk driving conversation is being made, I wanted to share this. It is a powerful video that should be passed on and shown to teenagers and adults alike. It is graphic so watch with caution. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2mf8DtWWd8

  • AdmiralWestSeattle March 21, 2010 (5:28 pm)

    SAL9000, the problem was the driver was speeding. If he was doing the speed limit, do you think his chances would be increased he would have survived? As for the possibility he was drunk, where did you get the “80%” figure from? Is that some sort of scientific number you can share with us or did you pull it out of your anus? Yeah, I am 101.2% positive you pulled it from your rectum.
    .
    Cars do not get this damaged and mangled when people are doing the speed limit AT THIS CURVE!!! Just stop with your “science” and shut up now. That ain’t 30 mph.

  • CB March 21, 2010 (5:38 pm)

    Stay off the roads at 2am… most drivers are under the influence to one degree or another. I am sorry someone lost their life in such a terrible way.

    DUI needs to be a felony and a death caused by DUI needs to be teated like any other murder. Some clown just got 8 years in prison for killing 4 people in a DUI crash. There are people serving longer sentences for lesser crimes. It’s time we seriously addressed DUI.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (6:00 pm)

    I don’t want to beat the proverbial expired equine, but the problem was DUI. The problem was not speeding. Meaning, had their been speed cameras at this spot on the road would said DUIer have gone slower? Of course not. Prevent the crash, don’t worry about exacerbating factors.

    I do not argue that this road doesn’t have speeding problems, but get the drunks, the unlicensed, and the habitual criminals off the roads, and the most of our traffic problems go away. Don’t go Orwellian just to get some poor soul doing 48 in a 40. Per “CB” the very first order of business is to make DUI a serious crime.

  • ltfd March 21, 2010 (6:19 pm)

    SAL9000, you are seriously trolling, and speaking out of your posterior too. You are postulating that the deceased individual was inebriated; you know what happens when you assume something, don’t you ….?

    Speed isn’t an exacerbating factor in traffic collision fatalities, it is the primary cause of mortality in these cases.

    Due to the inverse square law, as speed doubles the force of impact is quadrupled. Increased force transferred to one’s body increases mortality. Slow down while driving out there.

  • J242 March 21, 2010 (6:30 pm)

    SAL9000, there hasn’t been any toxicology or other test results released yet however you seem absolutely sure it was a DUI. Perhaps it was, perhaps it wasn’t, we do not know absolutely yet so let’s not jump to conclusions.

    As for going “Orwellian”? Having a device that captures 3 still frames when a specific speed rate has been breached isn’t Orwellian at all. Now, London’s CCTV system or Vegas’s Casino security systems? Those might fit into your idea but that is not what this is and you making a mountain out of a mole-hill because this concept is in no way, shape or form Orwellian unless it was live feeds which these systems are NOT.

    Now, speed is a MAJOR factor as even if someone is driving completely intoxicated but they are only going 15 miles an hour, it wouldn’t cause the damage that a sober person going 15 miles OVER the speed limit will cause. I’ve seen multiple minor fender benders in the 8 years I’ve lived in the Admiral district around that curve and every single incident I’ve witnessed, heard of, had friends & family be involved in, etc other than this tragedy, it’s been sober people looking at the view instead of keeping their eyes on the road or just people doing something other than paying attention.

    Having speed “cushions” and/or a speed capture camera would help make drivers more aware and either option would be better than doing nothing.

    Yes, it would be fantastic if as a society we could change our penal code to be harsher against DUIs and such but that’s something that has to be taken up at the state or at least city level, it’s not something we can enforce on our own, within our neighborhood AS a neighborhood so let’s keep this conversation grounded in what is realistically achievable and better yet, plausible.

  • AdmiralWestSeattle March 21, 2010 (6:42 pm)

    Hey, well said, J242! I stated earlier, put up the speed cameras, go ahead and mark the heck out of it with plenty of warning signs, and people will take this corner a lot more seriously. Also, I wanted to blow another hole into SAL9000’s argument: I have driven while under the influence (before the laws were passed at .08 BAC), and I never crashed or died. Being a bit smarter these days, I would never drink and drive again.
    .
    As I wrote this, someone just drove down that same curve doing at least 50 with his FastAndFurious muffler and spoilers as though he were on the Gran Prix circuit. It’s stupid and I am too old and too tired to argue with you anymore. But, I will leave you with one more reason to put the camera in – think of the revenue the city will gain collecting the tickets from this spot. That camera will pay for itself in short time, and one more reason: people will begin to slow down – making it safe.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (6:44 pm)

    Okay, I think that’s fair to wait to judge if this is DUI. But I say again, people who DUI don’t care about speed cameras. Yes, there’s only so much you can do when the prevailing socio-political mindset is to not elevate the consequences of DUI. However, selling your soul on the morally bankrupt tack of speed cameras and other (yes) Orwellian tactics is a diversion and otherwise distracts from the task at hand, let alone feeding the colossal in-for-a-penny/in-for-a-pound snowball effect of giving ever more power to the state.

  • picot March 21, 2010 (7:21 pm)

    I don’t care if it was a drunk driving or not. This section of Admiral is dangerous. The people that live in the surrounding neighborhoods do not feel safe. The people of WS seem to think it’s a priority to get to their destinations five minutes faster rather than being protective of human beings.
    How many more people must die before SDOT takes this seriously? Call up and ask. It’s negligent.

  • Irukandji March 21, 2010 (7:30 pm)

    SAL: Tell that to the pedestrians who try to get to their bus stops daily and to the decimated planters just west of the viewpoint. I don’t dispute that alcohol may have played a part in THIS incident. I contend, however, that the regular disregard of the existing speed limit on Admiral Way is ALSO a factor, a known one, and one that COULD be addressed by the city through traffic calming measures, enforcement, signals, etc. We may not control how much any given person drinks before driving. We can make an effort to slow down the customary yet illegal speed of drivers along Admiral Way.

  • J242 March 21, 2010 (7:38 pm)

    SAL9000 “However, selling your soul on the morally bankrupt tack of speed cameras and other (yes) Orwellian tactics is a diversion and otherwise distracts from the task at hand, let alone feeding the colossal in-for-a-penny/in-for-a-pound snowball effect of giving ever more power to the state.”

    Do you also fight against stores having security cameras that record all the time? What about banks? To you it’s perfectly acceptable to “spy” on innocent shoppers and record their movements “just in case” they catch a criminal in the act but completely “Orwellian” to have a motion triggered STILL CAMERA in place catching people breaking other laws that more often than not hurt far more people? Do you realize how many hit & runs have been solved using these cameras? People brought to justice for fleeing the scene of a crime where someone was hurt or killed?

    Of course, the rights of victims don’t seem to matter much to you because you don’t like the idea of a camera being there that will take a picture of you in the act if you break a traffic law. Yeah, that’s real fair… Again, this isn’t London’s CCTV system or anything, it’s STILL PHOTOS that are ONLY triggered when someone is breaking the law. How is that in ANY way Orwellian? It’s no different than having speed traps set up, except that it’s far less expensive and far less dangerous.

    Sorry about the tangent, the main point here is that something needs to be done to ensure the safety of drivers, bicyclers and pedestrians in the area. The one crosswalk definitely isn’t enough. I’d even support a second light at the top of the curve but the problem with the current light is it’s almost always green for admiral traffic. I think a slow-zone of 20 mph around that curve via speed “pillows”, photo radar or otherwise would be a good idea. At this point, anything is better than doing nothing.

  • Irukandji March 21, 2010 (7:39 pm)

    Oh picot: The city will not give you an answer about how many people have to die on Admiral before the speeding is taken seriously. They built the planters then we had to BEG to have them come out to cut down the weeds we couldn’t see over to leave from side streets onto Admiral. Cars do not stop for peds crossing legally at corners. I don’t take the bus downtown specifically because crossing Admiral is a hazard unless going up to 42nd (ped hit there, too, and treated at Harborview for MONTHS), or down to the viewpoint then back up hill – with kid.
    .
    Neighborhood consensus, a couple deaths, property damage, pleading by pedestrians who WANT to use the bus: none of it seems to matter. We need an undisclosed number of deaths before the city will act to make safety a priority here. I have asked which one of us ought volunteer to be injured or killed (or heck, volunteer a spouse, child, or ex-spouse). It matters not.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (7:49 pm)

    @J242

    First, your camera analogy is broken and thus unanswerable. Security cameras on private property are not related in any way to state-based Orwellian cameras.

    Second, “victims” have no right to bring the specter of the state down upon those they don’t agree with. Moral law is objective law, and speed cameras are neither.

  • picot March 21, 2010 (7:54 pm)

    Well…my neighbor’s grandmother was killed crossing at Belvidere and Admiral, another’s daughter lost her arm, another was hit and suffered brain damage. This is just of the top of my head, and I know for a fact that none of them volunteered. So I ask SDOT again, how many people must die or be severely injured before the situation is solved by SDOT?

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (7:54 pm)

    The one issue only obliquely touched on is that at least part of the problem with West Seattle traffic is demographic. Sounds very unPC, but there you have it.

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (8:26 pm)

    The problem with what a lot of people are suggesting is that it is subjective. I don’t doubt there are problems on Admiral Way, but the way to approach it is objectively. Calling for speed cameras and what not isn’t it. You guys want action I suggest lobbying the city for a traffic study and baring that start a neighborhood fund to pay for a traffic study and then submit it to the city.

  • AdmiralWestSeattle March 21, 2010 (8:29 pm)

    Hey SAL, the cameras of London are all over the place… not on private property. You do not live in a society that is all that creepy. The cameras are only taking a picture of the license plate, matched by a human within a database, and sent to your mailbox. It’s a great service because (here comes one more item for you) – you don’t have rubber-necking clogging up the traffic when they have to pull anyone over. Also, it reduces the number of times an officer has to risk being hurt or worse while approaching a vehicle pulled over. I think a couple of crosswalks across Admiral would be a great start. This is getting horribly dangerous.
    .
    I’m not sure what your point was when you touch on the demographic, but I’m sure it won’t be educational. Good night, neighbor. Smile and say, “Hello” when you pass folks walking on Admiral and any other street in West Seattle. They are your neighbors and deserve it.

  • Felix March 21, 2010 (8:38 pm)

    The decieced is my cousin. He was a great man and father. He loved his family very much. He will be greatly missed.

  • JanS March 21, 2010 (8:46 pm)

    I wonder how many comments we can get on here if SAL9000 keeps trying to have the last word. We all have gotten your point.Someone died. Their family is reading this. We don’t know if the deceased was drunk or not. We do know, from the size of the impact, that speed was involved. He was going down Admiral towards the viewpoint and failed to negotiate the curve. Two other people are injured seriously. And you’re worried about a silly camera? Do you even live in our neighborhood? Or do you just like to hang out on here, making comments, trying to tick people off because you simply have to be right.

    Now…before you disappear into the sunset, tell us about the demographics here…and then…try to muster up some respect for the injured, and the families involved, and move on to the next topic. Geez !

    My sympathies to the family of the deceased, and hope for a quick and full recovery of the injured. The rest will play itself out.

    FWIW…in all my life I have only had one speeding ticket…it was at 37th and Admiral 9 years ago. It was extremely easy to get up to 45 miles an hour in the matter of driving a minute or two from 42nd SW. I never do that now, I pay attention, and it’s amazing how many drivers will fly past you.

  • J242 March 21, 2010 (9:06 pm)

    Felix, my condolences…

    JanS, thank you…

  • jackie n. March 21, 2010 (9:19 pm)

    D…. was a happy person that never would hurt a fly…and for him to have to leave us the way this happend is hard for us all… so weather it was speeding,dui or whatever the case may be he was a human being and deserves way more RESPECT than what you people are giving to him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE AND MISS YOU!!!!!!!!! LOVE TO ALL HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS

  • SAL9000 March 21, 2010 (9:46 pm)

    I didn’t intend to offend; my final comment is that speed cameras are not the answer. Best to all.

  • Nicole C. March 21, 2010 (9:49 pm)

    This is to S. Thomson and anyone else that has anything bad to say. The man who died was my 29 year old cousin, Daniel Ramirez. He was a wonderful man, an amazing cousin, and an outstanding father. He had two kids and a beautiful women by his side. Whether it was his fault or the other persons, whether alcohol was a factor or not, he was a human being. Prone to mistakes. This mistake ended his life and all you can think to do is make rude remarks? What you’ve never went to a bar and had a few drinks and then driven home? Well fyi he usually didn’t. He usually caught a cab. More responsible then most people. I’m a 15 year old dealing with the death of a family member and then I come on here and see some of the things people are writing about him.. You obviously didn’t know him so you can keep your personal opinion personal. Think before you speak or type. I loved my cousin. I always will.

  • G. Ramirez March 21, 2010 (10:11 pm)

    The other fatal car crashed that happened on March 9th on 16th ave. the driver was a friend of mine. This recent fatal car crash, the driver was my Nephew. So I am kinda having a hard time with all the quick to judge comments. Both will be missed. I am also a bartender, and have been for years. I understand everybody wants to have there opinion, and state their point of view. Everyone involved might have had something to drink that night. Darryl Mason, my friend that died on 16th was one of the smartest people I’ve ever met. My Nephew, Daniel Ramirez was one of the sweetest. Always smiling and laughing, will always be loved and greatly missed by many. So no matter what the tests show, have a little respect for the friends and family of my nephew. We will always remember him in our hearts as a loving person and father.

  • JoB March 21, 2010 (10:23 pm)

    i am so sorry someone lost their life on this terrible corner…

    it is a tragedy that might have been averted if we all realized that this is a neighborhood… not the West Seattle Freeway… and agreed to strict traffic control including speed barriers …

  • Felix March 21, 2010 (11:21 pm)

    Thank you to all that have protected the honor of my cousin. He was the best of us and never drove when he drank. He just bought that suv that day and was proud of it ( his first nice vehical). He did always take a cab. So much so he was friends with most of the drivers.
    To all of those that don’t know. You know where to stick it!!!!

  • Felix March 21, 2010 (11:22 pm)

    That is a very deadly corner.

  • Concerned March 22, 2010 (7:55 am)

    Speeding does cause accidents!! How can anyone say it doesn’t! Yes drunk drivers are probably a tad bit scarier, but the usually do both drink and speed! It’s not just Admiral Hill to worry about, I am constantly being passed, honked at, flipped off by drivers wanting to go 10 or more miles over the speed limit EVERYDAY!!! People are in too much of a hurry … I usually catch up with them at the next stop light … they won’t look at me, afraid I’ll flilp them off … but I won’t … I just pray for them and all of us too!!

  • Dave Hoover March 22, 2010 (8:19 am)

    We live just off Admiral in vicinity of this crash. Every day, at all times of the day, many cars are excessively speeding in the vicinity of where this crash occurred. I’m surprised more accidents like this haven’t occurred. While sitting to make that left at 37th & Admiral I’ve had a number of close calls with cars whipping around that curve on two wheels have difficulty holding their lane because of the speed they were driving. The radar sign showing speeds coming up the hill have helped calm the speed a little but you’ll still get those cars racing up the hill at 60mph. Also after the cars leave the light on Admiral at Starbucks, the race is on from there. I’ve seen cars easily doing 45-50 mph 4-5 blocks East of that light as they pass our street. As a solution, maybe more lights are needed in this stretch that could be activated automatically if speeds above the speed limit are detected.

  • mari mendoza March 22, 2010 (9:20 am)

    To the family of Daniel Ramirez, I’m so sorry ! words can not express how we down here in my house are feeling. Daniel was the sweetest young man anyone could know. Now all we have are memories and vidoes of the time we spend with Daniel. Can not believe he has left us, it really hurts to lose such a great person regardless how things happened. We will miss you, DANIEL!! From your cousins and Mari – (who also saw him as a son and loved having him around)in Raymondville, Texas. For the family— keep strong ! Always in our prayers.

  • Katalina March 22, 2010 (10:53 am)

    My thoughts and prayers go out to the Ramirez familia and all others involved in this accident. I agree that it’s a dangerous corner and something should be done. I grew up in West Seattle very close to where the accident was and have seen and heard about way too many accidents there. It’s sad to come on here and read what some folks have written but I guess everyone can come and here and write their own opinion. Daniel will be missed by many.

  • Robert2715 March 22, 2010 (11:37 am)

    As an aside, I suggested to SDOT that left turns should be prohibitted onto Admiral from Olga and 37th, but they blew me off. Most of the “locals” know not to attempt these types of turns, but people not familiar with the neighborhood try these risky turns all the time.

  • Dave H March 22, 2010 (2:29 pm)

    If the speed limit is being followed, left turns from Admiral onto 37th/Olga are perfectly safe but there is such a prevalence of speeding that is not as safe as it should be. SPD speed traps on Admiral are pretty predictable too. They are almost never there after dark and that’s when most of the worst speeding occurs from my experience.

  • andrea c. March 22, 2010 (4:47 pm)

    this is such a tragedy. the man who’s life was taken away is such a good and respectful man. i am infuriated at the ignorance of the negative people on here judging someone that they don’t even know and only going off of hearsay. treat others as you would want to be treated. i’m sure if one of your loved ones passed the last thing you would want is for people to talk negative about them. he deserves the same respect he has given to everyone he has met everday of his life. may he rest in peace.

  • me on 28th Ave SW March 22, 2010 (4:48 pm)

    My sympathy to all the families and friends who lost a loved one in these recent accidents. It is never easy to lose someone to death, but is even more difficult when it is in such a public manner. Hold your memories close.

  • Nicole C. March 22, 2010 (5:17 pm)

    The people first on scene said they smelt alcohol on people in the truck not on the suv driver. If DUIs are so illegal why do they let people drive to bars? They’re going to have to drive home aren’t they. Have you never lost someone to something like this? I find it funny how people can sit here and slander a dead man. A man whos family, including me, will never see him again. A bit of advice for those of you being ignorant, grow up, learn to respect the ones others have lost just as you would want people to respect your dead loved ones, and lastly get a clue. Our legal system is obviously flawed or this wouldn’t have happened.

  • Nicole C. March 22, 2010 (5:18 pm)

    The “scumbag” your all referring to was my family member. The man that died in that SUV had a job, raising his kids. So he was driving home from the bar after working a 24 hour shift with his two kids. And it just so happened that there were two others driving up the hill. They crashed and according to first on scene my cousin, the dead man, didn’t smell like alcohol it was the two that survived that smelt like beer. Honey check your facts and shut your mouth. I’m sorry for your brother. At least I came on here and didn’t slander his name..

  • Ramona March 22, 2010 (6:21 pm)

    I am not one for following blogs, I happened to get this one because it was regarding a horrible accident that killed the son of a dear family friend. I just want to say that my heart and prayers go out to Daniel’s family…and for all of you that think you can save the world by exchanging ideas via this method, freedom of speech or not, please show some compassion and remember that there are many victims here and the young man who passed was a beloved son, father, brother, nephew, cousin and friend. Rest in peace, Daniel, we love you.

  • WTF March 22, 2010 (8:17 pm)

    Back-off the WSB. It’s their JOB to report the news. Speed trap or no speed trap. If you’re driving right and tight and LEGALLY you wouldn’t have to worry.

    Karl, good on ya. I repeat his stead: Don’t Drink & Drive!

  • mari March 22, 2010 (8:18 pm)

    Our respects to Daniel, sorry we can’t pay our respects in person since we live in Raymondville, Texas. Can’t believe his life has been cut so short. Doesn’t matter how it happened or who’s fault it was —- a life has been lost ! We will always remember Daniel as a loving,and so sweet young man. Will sure keep the family and Daniel in our hearts. All we are left with are memories and of course home video’s,from years ago. That we will enjoy watching over and over. Love to Daniel Ramirez, from Mari, Mario,Rosalie,Lupio and Ricky Jr. Our prayers are with the family.

  • Felix March 22, 2010 (9:40 pm)

    To all his friends out there reading this blog. Contact me at bigtimefrw@gmail.com to find out when and where the memorial is. Real friends only. I will know.

  • judy March 22, 2010 (10:26 pm)

    thank you to the ICU nurse and girlfriend first on the scene. i am an aunt of the driver of the truck, and have just returned from harborview with the rest of our family. you may have saved my nephew’s life. he has a long road to recovery, which might not have happened without your acts of kindness. thank you, and thank you, Jesus.

  • T.J. March 22, 2010 (10:47 pm)

    R.I.P Daniel. Great guy, Great friend. You and your family are in my thoughts

  • Felix March 22, 2010 (11:30 pm)

    Thank you Mari for your thoughts. We love you.

  • curtis March 23, 2010 (12:34 am)

    ya know, something really disturbs me about this thread. Well, a couple of things. First, the fact that we’ve got folks just spouting out insulting, insensitive things regarding someone who they didn’t know, but was taken from their family suddenly.

    But the other thing that I find disturbing is that there are quite a few comments along the line of “come on, every body drinks and drives sometimes” really? REALLY? I don’t. (no, I’m not a tea toataller). This idea that everybody has a couple too many and then drives home is pretty repulsive, to be honest. I hope it’s just the warped view of a few.

    Everyone does NOT have a couple of extra drinks and then drive home.

    I’m sorry to hear that anyone has had such a sudden and udeserved lost. I’m also sorry to read such insensitive drivel from so many folks.

  • KJ March 23, 2010 (5:41 am)

    We live close to where the accident occurred as well, and have been saddened for days thinking about what we heard and saw, please be respectful of the friends and families of all three of the people involved. There must be a reason these events are called ‘accidents’, and certainly neither driver that night intended for the outcome. Our hearts go out to everyone involved.

  • nichole casado March 23, 2010 (9:52 pm)

    Judy-
    I’m “the girlfriend” of the “ICU nurse” we were first on the scene as your nephews truck was right behind us. I am glad to hear your nephew and friend from the truck are still with us. Esp. as I took vitals, and was the one who talked to them at the scene trying to keep them alert and awake until medics arrived while my boyfriend the ICU nurse tried to find a way into the SUV to do CPR on the driver. I would love to touch base with you and follow thier progress in recovery please email me bellyblessings@happyhippie.com so we can exchange phone numbers. Funny my boyfriend was so suprised at how I handled the accident I too work in health care but more on the corp. side but was very thankful that night for my many years working skilled nursing with unpredictable paitents.
    As for contemplation about alcohol from everyone else I can assure you the man in the SUV died on impact. We did everything we could to try to get to him to attempt CPR including busting out a window but there was just no way to get to him. I seriously doubt anyone could have gotten close enough to the SUV driver to smell anything at all as it was a challenge for my boyfriend to even get in to try for a pulse. I talked at length with the driver of the pick up truck and his friend trying to keep them awake and all I found was severe shock and trauma they were lucid not slurring and keeping up with my coversation pretty well given the circumstance untill medics arrived. I’m a former bartender and know signs of intoxication.
    On another note shame on King 5 for showing me at the scene with out my permission I work with a very frail and emotionally attached population who saw the news and were scared that I was IN the accident. I must have had 20 phone calls monday alone. Not cool. I get it a public place they have the right but I was trying to do the right thing…where was my privacy rights in all that? Also the media actually GOT IN THE WAY of the fireman and had to be yelled at by myself, boyfriend and the cops at the scene where is their responsibilty in this? Are they not human? There was a dead man and two people being cut and extracted out of a truck this should not be fodder for the evening news. King 5 was there BEFORE the medics even, ridiculous.
    Again Jan please contact me I would love to speak with you and see how the guys are doing I’ve been thinking of them and praying for them since that night.
    NC

  • dale March 23, 2010 (11:11 pm)

    Although I do not live close to the accident scene I drive by it nearly every day. I cannot understand how this could have happened under any circumstance. A previous poster mentioned this vehicle was purchased that day, someone else said the SUV driver worked a 24 hr shift, where? Who can stay awake for that long? If so, I would need 10 red bulls to make it through and of course the resulting crash from those Red Bulls would put me to sleep. If that’s the case, the SUV driver’s mind & body was not in a good place.

    It may be possible to examine the black box of the SUV to determine the rate of speed prior to the impact and whether the brakes were applied or not. Clearly he was left of center so this would only serve to add more information to the reconstruction, if one is done. If there was some type of “mechanical” malfunction (i.e. toyota gas pedal) then the Black Box could have recorded similar incidents in the past.

    I am not a lawyer but have handled similar major accident claims for insurance companies in the past, be sure not to destroy the vehicle salvage so that this information is not “lost” for good.

    I feel bad for the SUV drivers family but especially bad for the truck driver and passenger as they were seriously hurt.

  • wssort March 23, 2010 (11:52 pm)

    Um, hello, this is a blog not an obituary. I think one has the right to say whatever they please, judgmental or not. Peace.

  • wssort March 24, 2010 (12:07 am)

    Anyone want to defend this guy?

    http://www.q13fox.com/news/kcpq-032310-520speeder,0,3337385.story

  • Felix March 24, 2010 (12:13 am)

    Defend?
    Are you seriosly trying to pick a fight? You might want to do some research first before you try being a tough guy.

  • G Ramirez March 24, 2010 (8:52 am)

    What my daughter meant by a 24 hour shift is that when Daniel wasn’t at regular he was raising his children. Being a Mother of three and also his Aunt I am confident in saying raising children is a very hard and important job. As for the obituary comment nobody is trying to make your blog into one. That you’ll be able to find in the newspaper, make sure you read it o.k. One more thing, as long as people write things about Daniel that they know nothing about, and comments like the obituary one there will always be a family member or friend of Daniels posting right back. I can promise you that he was loved by many.

  • BH March 24, 2010 (9:03 am)

    Please allow your compassion to guide you instead of your speculations and judgment. Finding a solution and not blame will help all those involved. If there was fault how does that help anyone. Revenge does not one any good. Get together and find a way to help prevent this in the future. Either by some type of traffic system or education around the pubs, bars or restaurants.
    I grieve for both the loss of life that will effect all parties involved and the injuries sustained that as well will effect all involved.

    Find compassion and allow it to motivate your response. That is how and why I am an ICU nurse and how I have kept doing what I do for so long..

    BH “The ICU Nurse” that helped out both parties and was honored to be able to do so.

  • Dale March 24, 2010 (9:05 am)

    G. Ramirez thanks for the clarification. I hope you can get through this process. I know from my own family tragedies that some questions can or may never be answered that’s why I put my perspective on the board to share something to help. Thats what is great about a blog.

    I have two boys–ages 21 and 17. Even at these ages I am surprised at the need to still raise them. When does this stop?

  • Felix March 24, 2010 (11:37 am)

    Dale,
    I have childeren and I hope it will never stop. I’m still a young man my self and I need my paerents every day. That is what family is a never ending unconditional love.
    BH,
    thank you for your efforts

  • picot March 24, 2010 (1:12 pm)

    To the Family-
    The neighbor adjacent to the crash has been very effected by this. Everytime we leave we are reminded of your loss. Your memorial is heartbreaking. We have committed to making this corner safer so that whatever the causes it doesn’t happen to another son, or father. Please take care and know that many people have you in their thoughts.

  • T.Whitehurst March 24, 2010 (3:47 pm)

    R.I.P. Daniel. My condolences to his family. He was the husband of a co-worker & the few times I met him, he was one hell of a nice guy. Always smiling! Now that I’ve read all this & spoken with a few friends, I am convinced he was not drinking. He had just gotten that SUV & probably was unfamiliar with the handling. I also have heard from people who know the occupants of the truck. They may have had a beer but were unlikely over the limit. Sounds like wrong place, wrong time on a wicked curve. I wish a speedy, full recovery to the couple. There will be a spaghetti benefit dinner for Daniel’s family listed in next week’s Queen Anne News to be held at the Mecca Cafe. I will post more details when I have them. As a drinker myself & the survivor of a drunk driver catching me on my motorcycle I plead, slow it down! And I applaud any effort to “fix” that evil Admiral curve!!!

  • David w. March 26, 2010 (9:58 am)

    Daniel, man I only knew you for a short time but I know a good person when I meet one. I’m sorry you left so early. My prayers to your family.

  • Jill G. March 27, 2010 (10:26 am)

    For the people on here that feel they have the right to post negative comments about people they know nothing about….. you’re absolutely correct. You have every right to be an ignorant, loud mouth, no-manners having jerk. I will not be joining you. I have known D.R. and many of his family members since junior high. Daniel was ALWAYS such a kind and fun person to be around. My heart is incredibly sad for his entire family. To the Ramirez family….. pay no mind to these silly people who have nothing better to do than show lack of home training and lack of the Lord in their heart. Daniel is loved…. here and with our Father. I’ve kept him(and especially his partner and children) in my prayers everyday. The entire Ramirez family should feel more than obliged to make this craptastic blog space serve a better purpose than just being a nosey “judge and jury” site. Bring on the good memories and keep them coming!!!! Love and prayers to all…..

  • Valentina March 28, 2010 (4:07 pm)

    Daniel was my cousin, i didn’t get to see him very much over the last few years but i love and miss him very much, and some of the things you people are saying about him are horrible! you should have learned when you were about 3 that, IF YOU HAVE NOTHING NICE TO SAY DON’T SAY ANYTHING AT ALL!!!!!

  • T.Whitehurst March 29, 2010 (3:38 am)

    The spaghetti benefit dinner for Daniel’s wife & child will be held on Thurs., Apr. 7th at the Mecca Cafe, 526 Queen Anne Ave. There will be a balloon send-off at 7pm. Donations are currently being collected to help in this time of need. Hope you can make it out! Drive safe & take care.

  • Felix March 29, 2010 (3:29 pm)

    T. Whitehurst
    Are there any flyers to hand out? If so please contact me at
    bigtimefrw@gmail.com

  • Ramona March 30, 2010 (3:23 pm)

    Thursday is April 8…so is the event on Thursday or on Wed., the 7th?

  • brandi March 30, 2010 (11:20 pm)

    FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE SYMPOTHY FOR THE ONES WHO ARE LEFT BEHIND AFTER HIS TRAGIC ACCIDENT…. FELL FREE TO COME TO THE MECCA CAFE . SEATTLE WA. WENS. THE 7TH OF APRIL. SILENT AUCTION AND SPAGGEETI BENNIFIT DINNER . PROCEEDS GO TO THE WIFE AND CHILDREN LEFT BEHIND WITH NO FATHER.

  • Yogi Kuddha March 31, 2010 (3:15 pm)

    Speed kills. Speed reduces the time available for either driver to react. It increases stopping distance and the amount of time it takes to stop. Morevoer, it is the most significant component in kinetic energy. The organ and tissue damage that causes injury and death is the direct result of kinetic energy. To say speed is not a factor in cause of crash or extent of injury is idiotic.

    FD is not dispatched according to “how many firefighters do you need.” Fire is dispatched according to what resources are anticipated based on the available information. The FD response to this scene was appropriate for a major trauma with entrapment of multiple critical patients. Three known patients, maybe more under the dash or ejected or who knows where. You need an ALS paramedic unit (2 or 3 guys) and a BLS aid crew (2-3 guys) for each patient. You need manpower for multiple simultaneous backboard evolutions. (~2 more guys per patient). You need to secure and stabilize the vehicles: One engine crew per vehicle (3-4 guys each). You need standby teams with hoselines in case of fire. (1 running the pump, 2-4 on handlines) You need to get to the patients. Lots of tools (hydraulic rescue tools) Not every engine has a tool, so you need an additional tool-bearing engine for each tool. I would want a minimum of 4 tools for this call: One on each side of each vehicles. Each tool comes with 3-4 guys. This scene requires coordination and a command structure. You need someone in charge of various functions so that everything is coordinated, efficient and safe. At a minimum: a rescue group supervisor, medical, staging, overall command… there’s a lot going on and it all has to happen simultaneously. Then you have specialized crews coming from farther out, but the less specialized crews are closer, so they leave at the same time, get there first, and get started while the rescue tech guys are still enroute. There’s a redundancy because the first crews get there and do what they can until the more technical resources get there. And if you wait until you need something before asking for it, it’s too late. You need to anticipate what you need and get it rolling so you have it. Last but not least, there’s the PIO — the Public Information Officer — who is there to answer questions like, “why does it take so many firefighters?”

  • seattle66 April 2, 2010 (2:06 pm)

    Are there any updates on the condition of the Two surviviors?

  • Angela April 4, 2010 (1:32 pm)

    So one of the survivors was released that Sunday with minor injuries in comparison to the second survivor. The second one had serious injuries but has made it through multiple surgeries and had a very long road ahead of him. There is nothing good about what happened. I am friends with all of the parties involved. Danny was a very well liked guy and was very responsible. Danny is one of the kindest people I have ever met. He leaves behind a huge family of love and a beautiful family. He will be dearly missed and always remembered. AS for my friend that is in the hospital, he is in great spirits and glad he get’s another chance. The two families are going through major pain – love and understanding is what is needed. I am really tired of hate and vileness being spewed from people’s minds and mouths. Seriously, there are ways to handle getting your point across with out being down right inconsiderate and judgmental.

    If there is a problem, then figure out a way to fix it instead of just rant and rave ignorance and judgments. Typically those are the people that never make a change. Get rid of the hate.

  • c.p. April 7, 2010 (10:07 pm)

    well said angela.

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