A devastating hit-and-run in South Seattle’s Rainier View neighborhood has claimed the life of 45-year-old Susana Garcia-Perez, a beloved single mother of three, described by her family as the “backbone” of their lives.
The incident occurred late Thursday night when Garcia-Perez was fatally struck by a recreational vehicle (RV) in the 11000 block of 68th Avenue South. A witness called 911 at around 10:30 p.m., reporting someone pinned beneath a vehicle. The RV driver fled the scene after also crashing into several parked cars.
Suspect Arrested After RV Spotted
According to court documents, the suspected driver, a 74-year-old man, had consumed approximately six beers before driving that night. Surveillance footage reportedly captured him striking multiple vehicles and Garcia-Perez without stopping. The suspect then fled southbound in the RV, a white 1999 Royal Classic with significant damage to its passenger side.
The Washington State Patrol quickly issued a public alert, including the vehicle’s license plate. The following day, around 3:15 p.m., the RV was spotted on Interstate 90 near North Bend. Several motorists who recognized the vehicle called 911, leading to the suspect’s arrest by King County authorities.
He was booked into King County Jail for investigation of vehicular homicide and felony hit-and-run. On Saturday, he appeared in court, where a judge set bail at $250,000. Formal charges are expected by Wednesday, according to the prosecutor’s office.
A Mother’s Final Moments
Garcia-Perez’s daughter, 25-year-old Nicole Robles Garcia of Woodinville, was on a phone call with her mother when the tragedy unfolded.
“I heard tires screeching, and then I just heard the phone fall,” she recalled. “I just started screaming her name because I just felt something.” Moments later, she heard her cousin and sister yelling in panic — confirming her worst fears.
Her brother, Dan Robles Garcia, desperately tried to pull their mother from under a Silverado pickup truck, but it was too late. Garcia-Perez was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Life of Sacrifice and Faith
Known for her strength, generosity, and unwavering work ethic, Garcia-Perez supported her family by working multiple jobs — often holding three at once — as a housekeeper. A devout Christian, she lived a life grounded in faith and selflessness.
“She gave us everything, even when she had nothing,” said Nicole. “She was so focused, so strong, and so selfless. I want her to be remembered as the woman who gave more than she could have ever had for herself.”
A Family Mourns and Seeks Support
Garcia-Perez is survived by her three children: Nicole, Avril, and Dan Robles Garcia. She also leaves behind several siblings and a young granddaughter. In the wake of this tragedy, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and honor her memory.
The hit-and-run has left the Rainier View community shaken and her family devastated, struggling to come to terms with the sudden and senseless loss.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the name of the suspect has not been released pending formal charges. Prosecutors are reviewing the case, and the investigation is ongoing.
The fatal crash underscores the dangers of impaired driving and the lifelong impact it can have on families and communities. For Garcia-Perez’s children, the loss is deeply personal — not just of a mother, but of their guiding light.
“She was our everything,” Nicole said. “She didn’t just hold us together — she was our foundation.”
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