Tragic Motorcycle Crash Claims Life Near Lewis and Clark High School in Downtown Spokane
SPOKANE, WA — A fatal collision involving a motorcycle has shaken the downtown Spokane community after a devastating crash occurred Friday afternoon near Lewis and Clark High School, prompting an extensive police response and a prolonged road closure in the heart of the city.
The Spokane Police Department (SPD) confirmed that the accident took place at the intersection of 4th Avenue and Stevens Street, a busy area typically filled with student foot traffic, office workers, and local commuters. Emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene shortly after the crash occurred, and officers quickly cordoned off the surrounding streets to secure the area for investigation.
A Scene of Tragedy and Caution
Although official details remain limited, authorities have confirmed that the crash resulted in a fatality, with the victim being the motorcyclist involved in the collision. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. It is currently unclear how many vehicles were involved in the crash or whether speed, impairment, or other factors contributed to the collision.
First responders arrived to find wreckage strewn across the intersection, and the motorcycle reportedly sustained extensive damage. Witnesses in the area described hearing a loud impact, followed by a rapid response from police and fire crews.
One witness, a local store owner near the crash site, said, “It was incredibly loud. We ran outside and saw debris in the street. It was heartbreaking. You never expect something like this to happen so close to a school.”
Area Closed as Investigation Unfolds
The Spokane Police Department has urged motorists and pedestrians to avoid the area while officers with the Traffic Collision Unit continue to examine the scene. Streets surrounding 4th and Stevens have been temporarily closed and will remain inaccessible for several hours. Drivers are being asked to seek alternate routes to reduce congestion and allow investigators space to work.
In a public statement, SPD said:
“We understand this is a heavily trafficked area, especially during school dismissal hours. We ask for the public’s patience and cooperation as we conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of this tragedy.”
Community in Mourning
The crash’s proximity to Lewis and Clark High School has left many students, parents, and faculty visibly shaken. While it is not currently known whether the victim had any direct connection to the school, counselors and support staff were made available to students following the news.
For many in downtown Spokane, this tragedy is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by both motorists and motorcyclists in busy urban intersections. Calls for increased traffic safety measures, such as improved signage, speed enforcement, and public awareness campaigns, have already begun to circulate in response.
Awaiting Further Details
The Spokane Police Department has stated that more information will be released as the investigation progresses. Updates are expected to include the identity of the victim, details about how the crash occurred, and whether charges or citations may be issued.
As of now, no additional injuries have been reported, and it remains unclear whether any passengers or other drivers were involved or harmed.
What You Can Do
SPD is encouraging anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage from the area at the time of the accident to come forward. Witness accounts can be instrumental in helping reconstruct the series of events leading to the fatal collision.
If you have information, please contact Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they become available from local authorities. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time.
