Authorities have identified a woman who died following a two-vehicle crash in Puyallup on Thursday morning. The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the victim as 76-year-old Marcella Magdalena Leiter of Eatonville.
The collision remains under investigation by the Puyallup Police Department.
Incident
The crash occurred around 8:45 a.m. at the intersection of 33rd Street Southeast and Pioneer Way East, near the Farm 12 area, according to police and earlier reporting from The News Tribune.
Officials said the incident involved two vehicles and resulted in significant damage at the intersection.
Response
Puyallup police officers and emergency personnel responded to the scene shortly after the crash was reported. According to a department release, officers immediately attempted life-saving measures on Leiter after arriving.
Despite those efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said the roadway was closed in both directions along East Pioneer between State Route 162 and Shaw Road for several hours while investigators worked at the location.
Others involved
Police said the second vehicle was occupied by a 28-year-old woman from the Puyallup area and a 33-year-old man from Tacoma.
The 28-year-old woman was transported to Tacoma General Hospital with serious injuries, according to Central Pierce Fire & Rescue spokesperson Chief Matt Black.
Officials said the 33-year-old male passenger did not require immediate medical treatment.
Investigation
Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the collision. However, police stated that impairment is not currently suspected in the crash.
Authorities are continuing to review evidence, witness statements, and any available video footage to better understand how the collision occurred.
Police have also asked anyone who may have witnessed the crash or captured relevant video to contact the Puyallup Police Department at 844-821-8911.
Traffic impact
The closure of East Pioneer Way caused significant disruption in the area during the morning commute. Detours were put in place while investigators documented the scene and cleared damaged vehicles.
Roadways reopened after several hours once initial investigative work was completed.
Context
Intersections such as 33rd Street Southeast and Pioneer Way East are high-traffic areas that often require careful navigation due to mixed commuter flow and nearby commercial activity.
Authorities routinely investigate multi-vehicle crashes in the region using scene reconstruction, vehicle damage analysis, and witness statements before determining contributing factors.
The fatal crash in Puyallup claimed the life of 76-year-old Marcella Magdalena Leiter and left another woman seriously injured. As investigators continue their work, officials say the cause of the collision has not yet been determined, though impairment is not believed to be a factor.
FAQs
Who died in the crash?
76-year-old Marcella Magdalena Leiter of Eatonville.
Where did the crash happen?
At 33rd Street SE and Pioneer Way East in Puyallup.
Were others injured?
Yes, one woman was seriously injured and hospitalized.
Is impairment suspected?
No, police say impairment is not suspected.
Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, the cause of the crash is still under investigation.
