Crash results in two fatalities

A head-on, two-vehicle collision on the Washington side of the state line on Highway 290 resulted in the death of two Rathdrum residents on Tuesday afternoon.

One of the drivers, James A. Jemison, 76, and passenger Donette L. Jemison, 57, died at the scene. They were in a 2005 GMC Yukon headed eastbound at 3:53 p.m. one mile west of the state line when that vehicle drifted across the center line at Starr Road, according to Washington State Patrol.

The Yukon struck a 1993 Peterbuilt semi driven by Gregory R. Malloy, 52, Otis Orchards, Wash., head on. Malloy, who was wearing his seatbelt, was not injured.

Both deceased occupants were also wearing their seatbelts.

The highway was closed for more than four hours during the investigation. No charges were filed. Drugs and alcohol were not a factor, according to police.