Susan Edler Obituary, Yakima WA Death – Seattle Mariner Dave Edler Injured, Wife Died In Car Accident
The Yakima, Washington, community is mourning the death of Susan “Susie” Edler, the wife of former Seattle Mariners player and former Yakima mayor Dave Edler. Susie, 67, died following a head-on collision on Sunday afternoon, November 8, 2026, while her husband sustained serious injuries.
The tragedy has affected the local community, where the Edlers were known for their years of involvement in church ministry, public service and community life.
What Happened to Susie Edler?
According to information released by the Yakima Police Department and reported by local media, the collision occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Coolidge Road in Yakima.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicated that a 26-year-old driver was travelling westbound in the eastbound lane at high speed when the vehicle collided head-on with the car carrying Dave and Susie Edler.
Both were trapped inside their vehicle and sustained life-threatening injuries. Emergency personnel transported them to MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital.
Susie was pronounced dead at the hospital, while Dave was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for further treatment.
Dave Edler Seriously Injured
Dave Edler, 70, is known in Washington for his professional baseball career and his subsequent involvement in local government and Christian ministry.
He played for the Seattle Mariners between 1980 and 1983 before returning to Yakima, where he later served on the city council from 2003 to 2006 and as mayor from 2006 to 2010.
At the time of the latest reports, he had been transferred to Harborview Medical Center with serious injuries. A further medical update was not available in the reporting reviewed.
Yakima Foursquare Church Pays Tribute
The Edlers had a longstanding connection with Yakima Foursquare Church, where they served together for more than 30 years.
Following the collision, the church shared a message asking the community to pray for the family and for Dave’s recovery. It also announced that its doors would open at 6 p.m. on Monday, November 9, for people wishing to gather in prayer.
The church remembered the couple as beloved leaders whose service had touched people throughout the Northwest and the wider Foursquare community.
Investigation and Arrest
Yakima police said alcohol was believed to have been a contributing factor in the collision. The 26-year-old driver was arrested and booked into the Yakima County Jail on charges of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault.
The investigation remains ongoing. The charges are allegations, and the accused driver is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Remembering Susie Edler
Susie’s death represents a devastating loss for her family, friends and the Yakima community. Her years of shared service with Dave at Yakima Foursquare Church formed an important part of their connection to the local community.
As loved ones navigate this difficult time, the community continues to hope for Dave’s recovery while remembering Susie and the contribution she made to those around her.