Valley man linked to deputy’s death

Published 9:33 am Thursday, October 2, 2008

A Carnation man is under investigation for possible vehicular homicide charges in Yakima County.

Sean Edward Kearney, 20, is accused of driving a car that crashed head-on into a car driven by an off-duty Klickitat County Sheriff’s Office sergeant July 18 at 3:07 p.m. Sgt. Peter Garland, 38, died as a result of injuries sustained in the collision. Kearney and his two passengers – Nick Hinton, 20, and Zachary H. Mehrens, 17, both of Carnation – were treated for minor injuries.

According to the Washington State patrol, Kearney passed in a no passing zone and collided with Garland’s vehicle. Alcohol or other drugs are suspected as a contributing factor, according to the state patrol.

For the complete story, subscribe to the Valley Record (425) 888-2311