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Spokane, WA (April 20, 2026) – A motorcycle burst into flames after a vehicle ran a stop sign and struck it at the intersection of West Indiana Ave and North Atlantic Ave, leaving the rider with life-threatening injuries. Witnesses reported the vehicle was traveling at a very high rate of speed before running the stop sign.
The motorcycle rider was initially in critical condition and required CPR during transport. Medics were able to restore a pulse before reaching the hospital, and the rider was taken there in serious condition. A second person was also hurt and transported by ambulance.
The female driver of the vehicle fled the scene on foot but was taken into custody shortly after. She was later reported to have been driving under the influence at the time of the crash.
The area was closed for an extended period while emergency units worked the scene. Major crimes unit personnel responded, and barricades were set up around the intersection. The roadway has since reopened.
Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our thoughts are with the rider and all those hurt as they receive medical care.
What Washington Riders Should Know About Motorcycle Crashes Involving DUI Drivers
Motorcycle riders are among the most vulnerable people on the road, and crashes involving impaired drivers are especially dangerous. When a driver runs a stop sign at high speed, a motorcyclist has little time to react and almost no protection from the impact. In Washington State, DUI-related crashes involving serious bodily injury carry significant criminal penalties for the at-fault driver.
Fires following motorcycle crashes, while not common, can occur when fuel lines or tanks are ruptured on impact. First responders are trained to address these hazards quickly while also treating injured riders. In serious crashes like this, the response often involves multiple units and specialized investigative teams to document the scene thoroughly before the roadway is cleared.
