Charges filed over accident that injured Cowlitz developer

Monday, May 3, 2010  

A woman faces criminal charges for an accident that injured David Barnett, a member of the Cowlitz Tribe of Washington who is helping his tribe develop a gaming facility.

Sarah S. Rutyne, who is reported to be Barnett's girlfriend, is charged with driving while under the influence and reckless driving. Authorities say she was driving a truck when it crashed and ejected Barnett, who suffered traumatic head injuries.

Barnettt bought the land where the tribe wants to build the Cowlitz Casino Resort. He owns a percentage of the partnership that will operate the casino.

Barnett is the son of the late John Barnett, who led the tribe for more than 20 years. John Barnett died in 2008.

Get the Story:
Criminal charges filed in crash that injured casino developer (The Columbian 5/3)

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