STEVENS COUNTY, WASHINGTON — Two Women Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Highway 395

STEVENS COUNTY, WASHINGTON — Two Women Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Highway 395

STEVENS COUNTY, WASHINGTON — Tragedy struck in Stevens County on Sunday afternoon, leaving two families shattered and a community grieving after a violent multi-vehicle collision claimed the lives of two women. The incident, which occurred shortly before 4:00 p.m. about two miles south of Loon Lake, is now being investigated as a suspected DUI crash, according to the Washington State Patrol (WSP).

 A Fatal Chain of Events

Authorities report that 43-year-old Amber Calicoat, a resident of Clayton, Washington, was driving northbound on U.S. Highway 395 when she attempted to pass another vehicle using the shoulder of the road. In doing so, her vehicle sideswiped the car she was trying to overtake, setting off a devastating chain reaction.

The impact of the initial collision sent both Calicoat’s vehicle and the other car into the southbound lanes, where Calicoat’s vehicle collided head-on with a southbound vehicle driven by 21-year-old Abigail Hill. The crash was violent and immediate. Both Calicoat and Hill were killed in the collision, pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.

Other Victims Involved

The first vehicle involved—the one Calicoat attempted to pass—careened off the road and struck a tree. Two adults in that vehicle sustained injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment. A two-year-old girl who was also in that car, miraculously, was uninjured in the crash. Authorities did not release the names of the injured passengers, citing privacy and ongoing investigations.

WSP noted that charges are pending against the driver of the initial vehicle, though it is unclear at this time what those charges may entail or how that driver contributed to the collision, if at all.

 DUI Suspected

While the official investigation remains underway, WSP confirmed that impairment is suspected in the case, specifically in relation to Amber Calicoat. Toxicology results are pending, and investigators are working to determine whether drugs, alcohol, or a combination of substances played a role in the tragic sequence of events.

The WSP’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) responded to the scene and is leading the forensic reconstruction of the crash.

🕯️ Remembering the Victims

Abigail Hill, only 21 years old, had her whole life ahead of her. Friends and family have taken to social media to express their heartbreak and disbelief. Described as a kind, driven, and compassionate young woman, Abigail had aspirations of working in veterinary medicine and was loved by all who knew her.

“She was the kind of person who made you feel special just by being near her,” said one friend. “She lit up every room.”

Amber Calicoat also leaves behind family and loved ones who are now grappling with a painful and complex grief. While the investigation into her role in the crash is ongoing, her death represents another layer of sorrow in an already devastating incident.

 Community Reaction and Support

The crash has shaken the rural communities of Stevens County, where residents are familiar with the quiet roads and serene beauty of the area near Loon Lake. Highway 395 was shut down for several hours on Sunday afternoon as emergency crews worked the scene and investigators began collecting evidence.

Calls for increased awareness about the dangers of impaired driving are growing louder in the wake of this tragedy. Local advocacy groups are urging residents to use designated drivers, call for help, or simply stay home if impaired—highlighting how one poor decision can ripple into irrevocable loss for multiple families.

📞 Call for Witnesses

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact the Washington State Patrol Spokane Office at (509) 456-4101. Investigators are especially interested in identifying the full timeline of events leading up to the collision.

🕊️ Final Thoughts

Two lives ended far too soon. A young woman’s dreams, a mother’s legacy—gone in an instant. What should have been an ordinary Sunday afternoon instead became a scene of chaos and loss. As the community mourns, it also holds its breath, waiting for justice and answers.

Let us remember Abigail Hill and Amber Calicoat for the lives they lived, and let this serve as a solemn reminder of the lasting consequences of impaired driving. In honoring their memories, may we work to prevent another tragedy like this from ever happening again.

Rest in peace, Abigail and Amber. You will not be forgotten.