Passenger critically injured after vehicle hits tree near Spooner Summit
A SUV crashed into a tree early Tuesday morning on State Route 28 north of Highway 50 and Spooner Summit, critically injuring a passenger, according to the Nevada Highway Patrol. A preliminary investigation indicates the driver of the SUV may have fallen asleep at the wheel.
The critically injured passenger, Morgan Russell, was taken to Renown Regional Medical Center for emergency treatment, said Trooper Trooper Karen Garretson. His age and hometown were not available. The accident was reported to NHP at 627 a.m.
The driver of the maroon 2009 Nissan Murano SUV was identified as Wesley N. Waterman, 25, of Kings Beach. He and passenger Karly Findorff suffered minor injuries.
Waterman may have fallen asleep at the wheel and traveled off the right side of the paved roadway surface, according to NHP. The front of the vehicle struck a roadway sign, continued in a southerly direction then struck a tree. The vehicle came to rest on the right shoulder, facing south.
Trooper R. Rikalo of the Nevada Highway Patrol is investigating this accident. Witnesses can reach out to him at NHP Carson City Sub Station (775) 684-7381, Department of Public Safety Communications Center (775) 687-0400 or rrikalo@dps.state.nv.us regarding case number NHP-140300814.
Once the crash investigation is complete, all applicable charges will be recommended to the Carson City’s District Attorney’s office for review.