Driver found dead in vehicle near Brinnon

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, December 7, 2016

BRINNON — The driver of a vehicle blocking traffic on U.S. Highway 101 near Brinnon was found dead, slumped over his wheel, today, according to the State Patrol.

The man died in what troopers believe was a medical incident, said Trooper Russ Winger, State Patrol spokesman.

Law enforcement responded to a call of a person slumped over a steering wheel, blocking traffic on Highway 101 at milepost 310 near Brinnon shortly after 4 p.m., Winger said.

The vehicle was in the road, blocking the northbound lane of Highway 101.

“There was a rifle in the car with this person, but we don’t believe it was a suicide,” Winger said. “We are believing it is a medical event.”

Winger, who didn’t know the man’s identity, said responders are waiting for the county coroner and then would clear the scene, probably by around 7 p.m.

East Jefferson Fire Rescue tweeted at about 8 p.m. Wednesday the highway was open in both directions.

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Reporter Jesse Major can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56250, or at jmajor@peninsuladailynews.com.