Teen Driver Faces Trial for Impaired Death | Portland News

Portland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 27, 2026 · 1m

A tragic crash in Cowlitz County claims the life of 18-year-old Elden Ragsdale, a high school senior, after he was pinned under a vehicle driven by 19-year-old Jacob Manecke Jr., who was later found with alcohol and THC in his system. Manecke, who admitted to drinking and was speeding, now faces vehicular homicide charges as his trial begins Monday. Ragsdale’s family mourns his loss and urges others to never drink and drive — or ride with someone who has. Manecke’s defense argues his BAC was below legal limits and that THC doesn’t always indicate impairment. This case is a sobering reminder…