A tragic accident claimed the lives of an elderly couple on Herron Island, a small private island in Pierce County, Washington. Authorities confirmed that the couple’s vehicle went off the road and plunged into the Puget Sound waters near their home, resulting in a double fatality that has left the tight-knit island community in mourning.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred shortly before noon in the vicinity of Goodpastor Park. Preliminary investigations revealed that the husband, who was in his late 80s and reportedly suffered from dementia, was behind the wheel of their vehicle when the accident took place. The couple had lived on Herron Island, which is accessible only by private ferry, and were reportedly attempting to drive near their property when the vehicle went out of control.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported seeing the vehicle drive off the edge of the property, over a concrete bulkhead and approximately 30 feet into the surrounding waters. Witnesses say the car began to submerge quickly after hitting the water. Two bystanders who observed the accident rushed to the scene in an attempt to rescue the couple but were unable to open the doors or windows in time due to the speed at which the vehicle sank.
Emergency services were immediately contacted. Responding agencies included the Pierce County Dive Team, West Pierce Fire and Rescue, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Tacoma Police Department’s Marine Services. Divers located the submerged vehicle and recovered both occupants, who were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities believe that the husband’s cognitive condition may have contributed to the accident. The investigation is ongoing, but no foul play is suspected at this time. An autopsy will be conducted by the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office to confirm the exact cause of death for both individuals.
Herron Island, with a population of just over 150 residents according to the 2010 U.S. Census, is known for its tranquility and close-knit community. The island has no commercial businesses and is managed by a homeowners’ association. The news of the accident has deeply shaken residents, many of whom knew the couple personally.
Tragic events like this highlight the dangers faced by elderly individuals dealing with memory-related conditions such as dementia, particularly in environments that lack immediate access to emergency infrastructure. Officials are using this incident to remind caregivers and families to regularly assess the driving abilities of aging loved ones, especially those diagnosed with cognitive impairments.
As the Herron Island community mourns this loss, tributes from neighbors and residents are pouring in, remembering the couple for their kindness, involvement in community events, and quiet dedication to each other in the final years of their lives.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a peaceful day can turn tragic and underscores the importance of vigilance, community safety awareness, and support for elderly individuals facing health challenges.
