Susan “Susie” Edler, 67, died on November 8, 2026, after a head-on collision on Coolidge Road in Yakima, Washington. Her husband, former Yakima mayor and Seattle Mariners player Dave Edler, was also seriously injured and taken to a Seattle hospital for further treatment.
The collision happened Sunday afternoon in the 7600 block of Coolidge Road. Police and firefighters arrived at approximately 4:30 p.m. and found the couple trapped inside their damaged vehicle.
Emergency crews worked to free both occupants and provide medical assistance. Susie and Dave were transported to MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Susie later died at the hospital, while Dave was transferred by air to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
The crash has prompted concern across Yakima, where the couple had spent years involved in church ministry and community service.
Investigation Into the Coolidge Road Collision
Preliminary findings from the Yakima Police Department indicate that a second vehicle was travelling westbound in the eastbound lane at a high rate of speed before colliding with the Edlers’ vehicle.
The other driver, a 26-year-old Yakima resident, was arrested following the incident. Authorities have identified him in court reporting as Trevor Stockton.
He faces allegations that include vehicular homicide and vehicular assault, along with an impaired-driving component. Investigators believe alcohol may have contributed to the collision.
Court reporting published November 9 stated that bail was set at $75,000 and that Stockton was released after posting bail. His next court appearance was scheduled for November 18.
The allegations remain subject to court proceedings. The investigation has not established every circumstance surrounding the collision, and no finding of guilt should be assumed.
A Longstanding Connection to Yakima’s Church Community
Susie and Dave Edler shared a history of service through Yakima Foursquare Church, where they spent more than 20 years in ministry.
Their work extended beyond the local congregation, with involvement in churches and communities throughout the Northwest. In April 2019, leadership of the church passed to their son, Jacob, and daughter-in-law, Chantal. Dave continued serving in the wider Foursquare movement.
Following the crash, Yakima Foursquare Church announced that its doors would be open for a community prayer gathering. The invitation gave church members and others an opportunity to come together and support the Edler family during a difficult period.
Dave Edler’s Career in Baseball and Public Service
Dave Edler became known in Yakima through several chapters of his career, including professional baseball and local government.
He played for the Seattle Mariners in Major League Baseball from 1980 to 1983, primarily as an infielder. His major league debut came on September 4, 1980, following his college baseball years at Washington State University.
He later entered public service, joining the Yakima City Council in 2003. He became mayor in 2006 and held the office through 2010.
His years in baseball, city government and church leadership made him a familiar figure in the community.
Dave Edler’s Condition After the Accident
After receiving initial treatment at MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital, Dave was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
Subsequent court and news reports described injuries that included fractures to both arms and significant facial injuries. He required further medical care following the collision.
The family is now facing Susie’s death while Dave continues his recovery.
Susie Edler Obituary and Cause of Death
Susan “Susie” Edler was 67 and lived in Yakima, Washington. She was married to Dave Edler, whose public life included professional baseball, local government and church ministry.
Obituary: Susan “Susie” Edler, 67, of Yakima, Washington, died on November 8, 2026, following a head-on vehicle collision on Coolidge Road.
Cause of Death: Fatal injuries sustained in the collision. Police said preliminary findings indicated that the other vehicle was travelling in the wrong lane. Investigators believe alcohol may have contributed, but the investigation remains ongoing.
Funeral Arrangements: Specific funeral and burial arrangements had not been publicly announced in the available report. Yakima Foursquare Church announced a community prayer gathering following the crash.
Disclaimer: Information about the collision and the driver’s alleged involvement is based on preliminary police findings and court reporting. The legal allegations have not been proven in court.