Zion Powers Obituary, Death; – A tragic multi-vehicle accident on a highway in Washington state over the weekend resulted in the death of a 13-year-old boy and left his father injured.
The deceased boy has been identified as Zion Powers, as reported by the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and various local news outlets including the Spokesman-Review, Moscow-Pullman News, and KXLY radio.
According to authorities, the incident, which involved five vehicles, took place on Saturday, November 16, on U.S. Highway 195, approximately three miles north of Rosalia, as stated by CBS affiliate KREM.
The WSP indicated that Stephen Powers was driving southbound when he lost control of his semi-truck and trailer due to icy conditions. His vehicle subsequently jackknifed across the northbound lanes, as reported by the Spokesman-Review.
Stephen Bischoff, who was driving a Mazda CX-50 with his son Zion, collided with the semi-truck before being forced into another lane, where he struck two additional vehicles. The semi-truck also collided with another parked semi along the highway’s shoulder.
The WSP reported that Zion, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, was transported to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries, according to KXLY and the Spokesman-Review. Stephen, who was wearing a seatbelt, was also taken to the same hospital for treatment and has since been released. Authorities have stated that the investigation into the crash is ongoing, as reported by KREM. On November 20, PEOPLE reached out to the WSP for further details.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established for the Bischoff family, organized by Paige Wieser, who expressed, “The tragic loss of Zion due to an automobile accident shakes us to the core and is felt across our community.” She further noted, “He was known by many and easily made everyone feel like his best friend—no matter their age.”
As of Wednesday, the campaign has raised over $116,000. Additionally, the Washington State University football team is honoring Zion by wearing “ZB” on their helmets, as reported by KREM. “From our football program to the Bischoff family, we extend our deepest condolences, prayers, and thoughts,” the team stated.
