CAROLINA GONZALEZ AND JOY EZINDU DIE IN DOWNTOWN OLYMPIA TRUCK COLLISION

CAROLINA GONZALEZ AND JOY EZINDU DIE IN DOWNTOWN OLYMPIA TRUCK COLLISION

Carolina Gonzalez and Joy Ezindu, two elderly women, died after being struck by a truck in downtown Olympia.

Fatal downtown Olympia truck collision death of Joy Ezindu and Carolina Gonzalez

A collision between a car and a truck on Fifth Avenue led to the deaths of Joy Ezindu, a 71-year-old Tumwater resident, and Carolina Gonzalez, a 62-year-old Olympia resident, according to the official report from the coroner. Both victims suffered fatal injuries from blunt force trauma caused by being struck by the vehicle.

The incident began around 5 p.m. when the two motor vehicles collided near Fifth Avenue and Simmons Street close to Capitol Lake. Following the crash, the truck lost control and crashed onto the sidewalk where the women were walking. This resulted in their immediate deaths at the scene.

The investigation into the accident is ongoing. Local authorities, including officers from the Olympia police department and members of the Washington State Patrol, are examining the incident.

Officer Paul Lower mentioned that the Olympia police force frequently collaborates with the Washington State Patrol on complex incidents. He stated, “It’s not unusual for us to bring in staff from other agencies to help supplement our resources. Washington State Patrol personnel often have specialized expertise due to their extensive experience with collisions.”

There is no indication that the accident was related to the upcoming Capital Lakefair preparations in the area.

Carolina Gonzalez was identified by her family member, Clifford Barela, who is also her relative. Following the tragic event, Barela initiated a fundraising campaign through GoFundMe to assist with funeral expenses. He shared the following statement about his mother: “She and her friend were walking across the street to attend a religious service at their church tent service when they were both struck by a truck, resulting in their instant deaths.”

Further coverage from The Olympian newspaper mentions the initial police announcement regarding the two-vehicle crash that led to the pedestrian deaths.