The family of 20-year-old Jhoser Sanchez has retained the Tamaki Law to pursue legal action against Sarah Lee Clasen, an off-duty Washington State Police trooper involved in a motorcycle accident that resulted in Sanchez’s death.
The fatal collision, which took place on March 1, 2025, in Richland, Washington, has stirred national interest—particularly as details emerge regarding Clasen’s blood alcohol content and her actions leading up to the crash.
“I just want…justice,” says Ruben Sanchez, Jhoser Sanchez’s father. “I think all the people want that.”
Tragedy Strikes Richland, Washington
Jhoser Sanchez was a promising 20-year-old man. His mother, Yolimar Sanchez, describes him as someone full of life. He was reportedly sober and not speeding at the time of the crash, according to the Richland Police Department’s case report.
The crash occurred on Highway 240 just after 7:40 PM—just nine minutes after surveillance footage captured Sarah Clasen picking up a takeout order at a Domino’s drive-through. The earlier surveillance footage shows her parking near the Moon Palace Restaurant around 3:00 PM and returning to her vehicle shortly before the crash. Investigators have noted she was a regular customer at the restaurant, sometimes visiting several times a week.
“I saw what I thought was a car with one headlight out. Just that’s where the reflective sign is that way. And so I was slowing in the turn lane and saw him there and I was like, I got enough time. I turn and as soon as I turn, just felt the boom,” Clasen said, according to NBC Right Now.
According to Officer Steven Heid and NBC News Right Now, Clasen said she had made the same turn many times before. However, when he asked her to do a field sobriety test or breath test, she declined, “saying, ‘I don’t want to do any tests based on the circumstances.’” At that point, Officer Heid provided her with a written statement sheet, which Clasen filled out, and then muted his audio for about 17 minutes—as well as a few other times during his four and a half hours of footage. According to the Richland Police Department, however, this is “not uncommon for officers” to do.
Elevated Blood Alcohol Content
Apple Valley News Now reports that “Richland police officers noted that Clasen showed signs of intoxication, including glassy eyes and slurred speech, and the odor of alcohol was detected. She refused to undergo a breath test or field sobriety tests.”
When Clasen refused a breathalyzer test, authorities obtained a warrant for a blood draw. The test, conducted approximately six hours after the crash, revealed a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.17, more than twice the legal limit in Washington State. Police arrested Clasen at the scene. Authorities later released her without bail during her first court appearance on March 3, 2025.
However, according to Benton County Coroner Bill Leach, timing is critical in interpreting BAC results. “The longer you delay, the lower it’s going to be,” he said, adding that factors such as body weight and how recently alcohol was consumed can complicate readings.
Because the blood test occurred over four hours after the crash, attorneys are concerned that Clasen’s BAC could have been even higher at the time of the accident. This raises questions about her judgment and behavior—particularly in her capacity as a member of the Washington State Police, even if she was off-duty at the time of the crash.
“The truth is that [Clasen] is someone who should be setting an example, but she didn’t,” said Yolimar Sanchez.
Legal and Community Response
Despite the evidence and growing public concern, authorities have not yet charged Sarah Lee Clasen with any crime. Spokane County Prosecutor Larry Haskell is now serving as a special prosecutor. However, as of mid-April, his office has not filed charges or offered a timeline for further developments.
When a law enforcement officer—who is sworn to protect the public—engages in behavior that leads to the death of an innocent person, the public deserves answers and action. Tamaki Law, known for its commitment to justice in high-profile and complex cases, is now representing the Sanchez family in their wrongful death claim. The firm filed a tort claim for damages against the Washington State Patrol. This is a standard first step before initiating a lawsuit against a state agency.
Public Outcry
The motorcycle accident that took Sanchez’s life has captured widespread attention, leading to calls for transparency and justice. Scott Johnson, Clasen’s defense attorney, expressed concern. He worries that the national and international interest in the case could threaten her right to a fair trial.
“The case has received unprecedented public interest,” Johnson stated. “This intense interest has made it extraordinarily difficult to ensure my client’s right to fair and impartial proceedings.” He also indicated that the defense is conducting its own investigation. This includes independent toxicology testing, accident reconstruction, and interviews with potential witnesses.
But for Yolimar Sanchez, the defense’s concern for public perception feels misplaced. “I feel like the attorney is trying to portray the woman as a victim because this case has been highly publicized,” she told NBC Right Now.
A Call for Justice
As the investigation continues, the Sanchez family remains steady in their demand for justice. They are supported by their community and advocates, including residents of Richland and surrounding areas. Their community sees this case as a test of accountability in law enforcement.
Tamaki Law’s involvement provides the family with skilled legal support as they navigate the complexities of filing a wrongful death claim against a state agency. Meanwhile, questions persist: Why have authorities not yet charged Sarah Clasen? Why was she allowed to get behind the wheel in the first place?
Special Prosecutor Larry Haskell says, “I consider the investigation to be active and ongoing. A charging decision will be made when the investigation is complete.”
Moving Forward
The road to justice for Jhoser Sanchez may be long. However, his family will not stop until they receive answers—and accountability. As more details come to light about Sarah Lee Clasen’s actions leading up to the crash, state prosecutors and the Washington State Patrol should respond decisively.
Tamaki Law is proud to represent the Sanchez family and help them in their quest for accountability. If you’ve been similarly harmed by a government worker, we want to help you, too. Contact us today to discuss your situation during a free consultation.