Susie Edler Obituary: Former Yakima Mayor Dave Edler Seriously Injured in Fatal Head-On Crash

The Yakima community is mourning the death of Susan “Susie” Edler, the 67-year-old wife of former Yakima Mayor and Seattle Mariners player Dave Edler, following a devastating head-on collision in Yakima, Washington.

The crash happened on Sunday afternoon, November 8, 2026, on Coolidge Road. Susie died from her injuries after being taken to hospital, while her 70-year-old husband sustained serious injuries and was transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for further treatment.

Police arrested a 26-year-old Yakima man in connection with the collision. Investigators believe alcohol may have contributed to the crash, which remains under investigation.

What Happened to Susie Edler?

According to the Yakima Police Department, officers and firefighters responded at approximately 4:30 p.m. on November 8 to a reported two-vehicle head-on collision in the 7600 block of Coolidge Road.

Emergency responders found Dave and Susie Edler trapped inside their vehicle, both suffering serious injuries. Firefighters worked to free the couple while providing emergency medical assistance.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a 26-year-old driver was travelling westbound in the eastbound lane at a high rate of speed when his vehicle collided head-on with the Edlers’ vehicle.

Both Susie and Dave were transported to MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Susie later died at the hospital, while Dave required additional medical treatment and was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

The Yakima Police Department confirmed that all three people involved were residents of Yakima.

Driver Arrested Following Fatal Collision

A 26-year-old Yakima man was arrested following the crash and booked into the Yakima County Jail.

Authorities identified him in subsequent court reporting as Trevor Stockton. He faces allegations involving vehicular homicide and vehicular assault, with prosecutors also pursuing an impaired-driving component.

Investigators believe alcohol may have played a role in the collision. Court reporting described evidence being gathered as part of the investigation, including a blood sample obtained after the driver reportedly declined field sobriety testing.

The case has moved into court proceedings. According to reporting published November 9, bail was set at $75,000, and Stockton was released after posting bail. His next court appearance was scheduled for November 18.

The allegations have not been proven in court, and the investigation and legal proceedings remain ongoing.

Remembering Susie and Dave Edler’s Years of Community Service

Beyond the tragic circumstances of the collision, Susie and Dave Edler were known throughout Yakima for their long-standing involvement in church ministry and community life.

The couple spent more than two decades serving together at Yakima Foursquare Church. Their ministry extended beyond the congregation, reaching churches and communities across the wider Northwest region.

In April 2019, leadership of the church transitioned to their son, Jacob, and daughter-in-law, Chantal. Dave continued serving in leadership within the broader Foursquare movement.

Their years of ministry made them familiar and respected figures among many members of the Yakima community.

Following news of the collision, Yakima Foursquare Church announced that its doors would be open for a community prayer gathering, inviting people to come together in support of the family and to remember Susie.

Dave Edler’s Career in Politics and Professional Baseball

Dave Edler also built a public profile through his involvement in local government and professional baseball.

He served on the Yakima City Council beginning in 2003 and became mayor in 2006, holding the position through 2010. During those years, he became a familiar figure in the city’s public affairs.

Before entering ministry and politics, Edler played professional baseball. He appeared in Major League Baseball for the Seattle Mariners between 1980 and 1983, primarily as an infielder.

He made his major league debut on September 4, 1980, after playing college baseball at Washington State University.

His journey from professional sports to church leadership and public service became part of his story in Yakima.

Dave Edler’s Condition After the Crash

Following the collision, Dave Edler was transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for specialized treatment.

Subsequent reporting described his injuries as including fractures to both arms and significant facial injuries. His condition required continued medical attention.

The crash has left the Edler family facing the loss of Susie while also hoping for Dave’s recovery.

Personal Details of Susie Edler

Cause of Death

Susie Edler died from injuries sustained in a head-on vehicle collision on Coolidge Road in Yakima on November 8, 2026.

According to police, the preliminary investigation indicated that another vehicle was travelling in the wrong lane at a high rate of speed before striking the Edlers’ vehicle.

Authorities believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor. The precise medical details of Susie’s injuries have not been publicly disclosed in the reports reviewed.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

As of the latest reports reviewed, specific funeral and burial arrangements for Susie Edler had not been publicly announced.

Yakima Foursquare Church opened its doors for a community prayer gathering following the collision, giving friends, church members and residents an opportunity to come together in support of the Edler family.

Details of the obituary, memorial and funeral will be announced by the family.