Wreck claims the life of 10-year-old

A 10-year-old Spokane girl was killed in a car accident on May 3, 13 miles east of Ritzville on Interstate 90. The girl, Gracie Snider, was a passenger in a 1997 Toyota Avalon that struck the rear of a box trailer semi while traveling eastbound on I-90 Saturday at 10:21 p.m. Ten-year-old Ayla James was also injured and transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center. Washington State Patrol reports both girls were wearing restraints at the time of the accident.

Driver of the vehicle, 38-year-old Nathan James, was injured in the accident but not transported to a hospital.

According to the State Patrol report, James’ vehicle was traveling in the right lane behind the semi when he struck the end of the trailer. Both vehicles came to rest on the right shoulder of the road.

Jame’s vehicle was totaled and impounded by Adams Automotive.

Polegi Eneliko, 56, was driving the 2001 Freightliner and box trailer at the time of the accident. He was not injured in the collision.

The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.