Rona Bowles Obituary, Death – A fatal accident on Tuesday night claimed the life of 34-year-old Rona Bowles, a homeless woman, as she attempted to cross 10th Avenue in Kennewick. The incident has sparked discussions about pedestrian safety and driver vigilance in poorly lit areas.
Details of the Accident
The tragic collision occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m. as Bowles was crossing 10th Avenue between Irby Street and the western entrance of Fred Meyer. According to Kennewick police, she was not using a crosswalk and was wearing dark clothing, making her difficult to see in the poorly lit area. A Nissan passenger car, driven by 23-year-old Juvenal Flores, struck her as it traveled westbound.
Witnesses quickly called 911, and emergency responders arrived to find Bowles severely injured. She was transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Driver Left the Scene but Later Called Police
Flores initially left the scene of the crash, stopping approximately three-quarters of a mile away. He called the police 13 minutes after witnesses first reported the collision. A passenger in Flores’ vehicle told investigators they had not seen Bowles in the roadway prior to the collision.
Authorities do not believe that Flores was impaired by drugs or alcohol, nor was speeding a factor in the crash. Investigators are still working to determine whether distraction played a role.
Police Emphasize Pedestrian and Driver Safety
Kennewick police highlighted the challenges of driving at night and urged both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution. They advised drivers to remain alert, especially in poorly lit areas, and encouraged pedestrians to use crosswalks and wear reflective or light-colored clothing when crossing streets after dark.
“Staying vigilant is crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to prevent such tragedies,” the police noted in a Facebook post.
Investigation and Possible Charges
The Kennewick police traffic unit continues to investigate the incident. The findings will be referred to Benton County prosecutors, who will determine whether Flores will face charges in connection with the accident. Authorities have not yet announced any conclusions regarding potential culpability.
Community Reaction and Support
The death of Rona Bowles has sparked sympathy and grief within the community. In a statement posted on social media, Kennewick police expressed their condolences to Bowles’ family and friends, encouraging the community to support them during this difficult time.
“We express our condolences to the family and friends of Rona Bowles and hope the community can help support and lift them up in the aftermath of this terrible tragedy,” the police wrote.
The Importance of Vigilance
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers pedestrians face, particularly at night and in areas without adequate lighting. It underscores the need for both pedestrians and drivers to prioritize safety. Pedestrians are encouraged to use marked crosswalks whenever possible and to wear clothing that increases visibility. Drivers, in turn, are reminded to remain attentive, especially in dimly lit or high-traffic areas.
As the investigation continues, police have asked anyone with additional information to contact the Kennewick Police Department’s non-emergency dispatch line at 509-628-0333.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Rona Bowles highlights the ongoing need for greater awareness of road safety. While no charges have yet been filed against the driver, the case has prompted calls for both drivers and pedestrians to adopt more cautious practices. As the community mourns this loss, authorities hope to prevent similar incidents through education and proactive measures.
