A Washington State Patrol trooper, Sarah Clasen, was arrested for vehicular homicide after allegedly causing a crash that led to the death of a 20-year-old motorcyclist in Richland, Washington. The incident occurred on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at approximately 7:39 p.m. at the intersection of SR 240 and Village Parkway.
According to the Richland Police Department, Clasen was driving when she attempted to make a left turn while returning home. She collided with the motorcycle of Jhoser Sanchez, who was approaching from the east. The impact struck the front right corner of his vehicle, causing severe injuries. Sanchez was transported to the hospital, where he later died.
Following the crash, police found inconsistencies in Clasen’s account of the incident. Authorities determined she was impaired, noting that she exhibited signs such as slurred speech, glassy eyes, and disorganized statements. She declined to take a standardized field sobriety test at the scene, as well as a preliminary breath test, both of which are commonly used in DUI investigations.
Clasen was arrested the following day and booked into Benton County Jail on a 72-hour hold. She appeared in court on Monday, March 3, where details from the probable cause statement were revealed. Clasen stated she was returning home after picking up a pizza and claimed the crash “came out of nowhere.” She told investigators she saw a single light and thought it was a car missing a headlight. She also alleged that the motorcyclist was traveling faster than the posted speed limit. However, Officer Steve Heid countered that an attentive driver should have been able to see Sanchez.
Richland Police took over the case from the Washington State Patrol to ensure transparency and an impartial investigation. Clasen was released from jail on Monday afternoon while awaiting possible charges.
Police described the crash as a tragic accident and expressed condolences to the Sanchez family. An autopsy for Sanchez is scheduled for Tuesday, March 4, and the investigation remains ongoing.
