Community Mourns Beloved OCEAN Student
One dead, three injured in collision involving Jefferson Transit bus.
News by Nhatt Nichols
JEFFERSON COUNTY, WA — Pelilu Wines, 17, described as an artist, animal lover and fan of puns, is being mourned by the OCEAN School community.
On Tuesday, March 3, Wines was driving westbound on SR 104 when her car collided with an eastbound Jefferson Transit bus, which then collided with a westbound vehicle driven by Sequim resident Christopher Fiorini.
Wines was pronounced dead at the scene, and bus driver Michael Berrett was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center. Fiorini and his passenger, Elizabeth Fiorini, were both transported to Jefferson Healthcare.
Wines’ mother, Kaleen Steike, is a former Port Townsend teacher. Port Townsend School District Superintendent Dr. Linda Rosenbury wrote in an email to parents, “Our broken hearts are with their family and friends and everyone who is grieving the outcomes of this tragic accident.”
The school district also offered additional counseling and support services to students and staff who needed it.
Bus driver Berrett has been released from Harborview Medical Center and is recovering at home.
“All our thoughts are with those affected by the accident, and it is our hope that all recovery that is possible is full and quick,” said Jefferson Transit General Manager Nicole Gauthier.
The accident is under investigation by Washington State Patrol. Everyone involved in the accident was wearing a seatbelt.
Cards and expressions of condolences are being accepted at OCEAN School, 3939 San Juan Avenue, Port Townsend, and will be delivered to the family. If you would like to financially support Wines’ family, you can find a fundraiser here.
