KIRKLAND, WA – A tragic accident unfolded in Kirkland’s Bridle Trails neighborhood, where a car crashed through the entrance of a grocery store, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The incident occurred just before 2 p.m. at the Grocery Outlet on 132nd Avenue Northeast, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the storefront severely damaged. Refrigerators and other equipment inside the store bore the brunt of the impact. According to police, the vehicle struck three individuals, one of whom later succumbed to their injuries. The other two victims remain hospitalized with serious injuries.
Authorities believe the crash was caused by an elderly driver who mistakenly hit the gas pedal instead of the brake. This driver is also receiving medical attention at a local hospital. The afternoon incident took place during a busy shopping period, and several employees narrowly escaped harm.
One store employee immediately contacted his mother in distress following the crash. She hurried to the scene, expressing immense relief that her son was unharmed. “He’s my firstborn,” she said, still shaken by the close call.
The identities of the victims have not been released, though police confirmed they include two women and one young person. It remains unclear which individual died as a result of the accident.
The physical damage to the store is extensive, but repair crews arrived promptly to assess and begin restoration efforts. There is currently no timeline for when the Grocery Outlet will reopen.