Pullman, WA – Clarkston Man Killed in Head-On Collision on Highway 195 Near Pullman

A fatal head-on collision on Highway 195 north of Pullman claimed the life of a Clarkston man Friday morning and left another driver injured, according to the Washington State Patrol. The crash, which occurred on a busy stretch of highway just outside the city, remains under investigation as authorities work to determine why one vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic.

The victim was identified as 42-year-old Alan J. Larkin of Clarkston. Troopers reported that the collision occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. on northbound Highway 195, about two miles north of Pullman. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a serious crash involving two vehicles.

According to preliminary findings from the Washington State Patrol, Larkin was driving a 2016 Nissan Versa southbound on the highway when, for reasons that have not yet been determined, his vehicle crossed the center line and entered the northbound lane. Moments later, the Nissan collided head-on with a northbound 2019 Ford Escape.

The force of the impact caused severe damage to both vehicles and prompted an immediate response from emergency crews. First responders arrived to find both vehicles heavily damaged and the occupants trapped by the wreckage. Despite lifesaving efforts, Larkin was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the collision.

The driver of the Ford Escape, identified as 47-year-old Chana L. Holt of Pullman, survived the crash but suffered injuries that required medical attention. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have not released details regarding the extent of her injuries, though officials indicated she was conscious following the collision.

Investigators confirmed that both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, a factor that may have helped reduce the severity of injuries for the surviving motorist. Troopers also noted that the two drivers were the sole occupants of their respective vehicles, meaning no passengers were involved in the fatal incident.

One of the key questions facing investigators is what caused Larkin’s vehicle to cross into the opposite lane. At this stage, authorities have not identified a specific reason for the lane departure. Investigators will likely examine a variety of factors, including the driver’s medical condition, possible vehicle malfunction, roadway conditions, and other circumstances that may have contributed to the crash.

The Washington State Patrol reported that drugs and alcohol are not believed to have played a role in the collision. That determination is based on preliminary evidence gathered at the scene, though investigators will continue reviewing all available information as part of their comprehensive examination of the incident.

The crash temporarily disrupted traffic along Highway 195 as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigators documented evidence. Drivers traveling through the area experienced delays while the roadway was partially closed for several hours.

Fatal head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of roadway accidents due to the combined force generated when vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. Safety experts often point to lane departures as a significant factor in many serious crashes, underscoring the importance of roadway awareness and ongoing safety improvements.

As the investigation continues, family members and friends are mourning the sudden loss of Alan J. Larkin. Meanwhile, the community is hoping for the recovery of Chana Holt as authorities seek answers about the circumstances that led to the tragic collision. The Washington State Patrol has indicated that additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.