53-Year-Old Pedestrian Pronounced Dead after Hit-and-Run Accident near Casey Road

TOPPENISH, WA (December 23, 2024) – Late Tuesday afternoon, James Kahama was killed in a hit-and-run pedestrian collision on State Route 22.

The Washington State Patrol received calls around 5:00 p.m., just west of Casey Road on December 10th.

Per reports, 18-year-old Yovani Diaz-Martinez was driving a 2015 Toyota Corolla and struck a pedestrian who was walking on the eastbound lanes.

In addition, two others vehicles struck the victim, and fled the scene without contacting authorities.

Due to the extent of injuries sustained, medics pronounced 53-year-old Kahama dead at the scene.

Further investigation is still ongoing, and witnesses are urged to contact the Yakima County Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

Detectives are seeking information about a 2018-19 Subaru Legacy with front bumper damage and two white box trucks that were in the vicinity at the time of the incident, according to a news release. They are also looking for a red four-door pickup that may have front-end damage.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with the loved ones of James Kahama family and friends.

Losing a loved one in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident can come with a heavy burden. Do not settle for the circumstances that come from someone’s negligence. Turn to the qualified and determined personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James. Call us at 1-844-363-7713 to know more about how we can help you.