At about 6:45 AM two seventeen year old males were crossing Jadwin St. at Wilson. The two were in a crosswalk and were heading to Richland High School. A 1993 Plymouth Acclaim driven by 42 year old Juan Ramirez of Richland was travelling southbound on Jadwin. Ramirez did not immediately see the two juveniles but was slowing as he struck them. One male had his feet hit, the second went up onto the hood and hit the windshield of the car.
Both subjects were transported by RFD paramedics to Kadlec hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The initial investigation shows that speed was not a factor in the collision. It appears that wet roadway conditions, darkness and driver inattention all contributed to Ramirez not seeing the subjects crossing the street.
Though the incident happened in front of Chief Joseph Middle School, the school zone lights were not activated (not within the hours programmed for operation).
Since the investigation is ongoing, no infractions have been issued at this time.
Contact Capt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362, for more information.