MAPLE VALLEY, Wash. – The Washington State Patrol is asking for more witnesses to come forward after a suspected drunk driver allegedly caused a crash that sent a motorcycle rider to the hospital.
It happened at 8:30 p.m. Friday on northbound State Route 169 near Southeast 214th Street.
A black 2005 Yamaha YZ was traveling the speed limit on 169 when a 2011 Jeep Cherokee made an abrupt right turn directly in front of the motorcycle, witnesses told troopers. The motorcycle rider was forced to slow down.
The Jeep continued ahead of the motorcycle, being driven erratically at very slow speed, witnesses said.
The motorcycle rider attempted to pass the Jeep in a marked passing zone. When the motorcycle got to next to the Jeep, witnesses say the Jeep made a sudden left turn without signaling and hit the motorcycle.
The motorcycle and rider were thrown down a slight embankment, hitting a fire hydrant and knocking it loose.
The driver of the Jeep kept going for about another half-mile before returning to the scene and eventually stopping.
The motorcycle rider was taken to Harborview Medical Center in serious but stable condition.
The driver of the Jeep, a 32-year-old Kent woman, was arrested for suspicion of DUI and vehicular assault. She was not hurt. Court records indicate she had a previous drunk driving conviction in 2007.
Anyone else who may have witnessed the crash is asked to call Detective Russ Haake at (425) 401-7717.
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