Reckless Driver Crashes Through Bridge Gates, Sparking Closure and Chaos

In a startling incident that unfolded on the streets of Seattle, a man found himself under arrest after crashing a car through warning gates and colliding with the guard rail on the raised Spokane Street Bridge. The dramatic event, which occurred on a Saturday evening, left authorities scrambling to respond and assess the damage, ultimately leading to the closure of the vital transportation link for an extended period.

Chaos Erupts on the Spokane Street Bridge

Crash Reported on the Lower Spokane Street Bridge

Around 7:01 p.m. on Saturday, the Seattle Fire Department received calls about a car crash on the lower Spokane Street bridge near Spokane Street and 11th Avenue Southwest. When crews arrived at the scene, they discovered two people trapped in the car after it had crashed against the guardrail, preventing the vehicle from going over the edge.

Reckless Driving and Impairment Suspected

According to the police, the driver of the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed as the bridge was swinging open. The car had crossed into the opposing lane, struck the warning gates, and then collided with the guard rail, coming to a stop. The passenger, a 21-year-old woman, was pulled from the car by Seattle Fire and treated for possible internal injuries. She was then transported to Harborview Medical Center in stable condition.

Loaded Firearm Discovered in the Vehicle

During the extrication process, Seattle Fire discovered a loaded 9mm Glock 45 pistol inside the car, which they promptly handed over to the officers on the scene. The driver, a 25-year-old Seattle man, was arrested and taken to Harborview Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. Police sought a warrant to test the driver's blood for intoxication, as he had shown signs of impairment.

Combative Behavior and Restraint Required

The responding officer's report noted that the driver had become "very escalated and combative with staff," requiring the assistance of six security personnel to restrain him. After the warrant was approved, medical personnel collected a blood sample for the police, and the suspect was released to the hospital for additional care.

Bridge Closure and Ongoing Repairs

The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) immediately closed the bridge to allow electricians and mechanics to inspect and repair the damage caused by the crash. Twenty-four hours later, SDOT informed drivers that the lower Spokane bridge would remain closed to vehicular traffic, with only pedestrian and bicycle access available.SDOT did not provide an estimated time for the bridge's reopening, stating that work to assess and fix the damage was ongoing. The barrier remained down as the necessary repairs were being carried out, underscoring the significant impact this incident had on the city's transportation infrastructure.