Port Orchard, WA – Fatal Motorcycle Crash on Highway 16 Claims Two Lives, Disrupts Evening Traffic
PORT ORCHARD, Wash. — A tragic motorcycle crash along Highway 16 in Port Orchard on Friday evening claimed the lives of two individuals and brought eastbound traffic to a grinding halt for several hours during the peak of the evening commute. The fatal accident, which occurred near the Tremont Street exit around 5:00 p.m., is currently under investigation by the Washington State Patrol (WSP).
Victims Identified: David R. Smith and Vickie L. Carr
The victims of the crash were identified by the Washington State Patrol as 65-year-old David R. Smith and 68-year-old Vickie L. Carr, both residents of Sequim, Washington. Smith, the driver of the motorcycle, and Carr, his passenger, tragically succumbed to their injuries at the scene. According to WSP’s report, both were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, but the impact proved fatal.
The couple had reportedly been traveling eastbound on Highway 16 approaching the Tremont Street exit when Smith lost control of the motorcycle for reasons not yet fully understood. The bike crashed without apparent involvement from other vehicles, according to preliminary findings.
WSP Public Information Officer Katherine Weatherwax confirmed that emergency services responded promptly, but the severity of the crash left no chance for life-saving measures. “It’s a heartbreaking scene,” Weatherwax said. “We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of Mr. Smith and Ms. Carr.”
Major Traffic Disruption Along Highway 16
The crash forced the closure of all eastbound lanes of Highway 16 near Tremont Street, causing significant delays for drivers heading toward Bremerton. Emergency responders, law enforcement personnel, and crash reconstruction experts worked into the evening to process the scene and collect evidence.
The Washington State Patrol advised commuters to use Anderson Hill Road as an alternate route, while traffic authorities monitored and rerouted the flow of vehicles to mitigate further congestion. Despite efforts to redirect traffic, the closure contributed to gridlock in several surrounding areas, compounding frustrations for commuters heading home on Friday evening.
The roadway was eventually reopened later that night after the completion of the on-scene investigation and debris cleanup.
Ongoing Investigation: What Caused the Crash?
As of Friday night, the exact cause of the crash remained under investigation. Authorities have not ruled out mechanical failure, road conditions, or a medical emergency, and no other vehicles were believed to be involved. Investigators are working to determine whether speed or other external factors played a role.
Witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage in the area during the time of the crash are encouraged to contact WSP to assist with the ongoing inquiry.
A Community in Mourning
The deaths of David Smith and Vickie Carr have left friends, family, and members of the Sequim community devastated. The couple, remembered by neighbors as warm-hearted and adventurous, often enjoyed scenic rides across western Washington on their motorcycle.
“They were inseparable,” one longtime friend shared. “They loved the freedom of the open road. It’s so hard to accept that a moment of joy ended like this.”
Their passing has sparked conversations around road safety, especially for motorcycle riders who remain more vulnerable to serious injury or death during accidents.
Motorcycle Safety Emphasized
While helmets and protective gear save lives in many cases, crashes like this one remind motorists and motorcyclists alike of the importance of caution, attentiveness, and preparedness on the road.
The WSP urges all drivers to:
- Maintain safe following distances from motorcycles,
- Avoid distractions,
- Check blind spots carefully,
- Drive defensively, especially in high-traffic or merging areas.
Motorcyclists are advised to inspect their vehicles regularly, wear all recommended safety gear, and avoid excessive speed, particularly on highways and exits where curves and sudden traffic stops are common.
In Memory
As the community grieves, thoughts turn to honoring the memory of David R. Smith and Vickie L. Carr, two lives lost too soon in a tragic accident. Memorial services are expected to be announced in the coming days, as family and friends come together to celebrate the lives of two people who shared love, adventure, and a deep bond that extended to their final ride.
Those wishing to offer condolences or share memories of David and Vickie may do so through online memorial platforms or through local community announcements to be released later.
Anyone with information that may help the investigation is asked to contact the Washington State Patrol at (360) 473-0300.
May David R. Smith and Vickie L. Carr rest in peace, and may their memory serve as a reminder of the preciousness and fragility of life on the road.
