Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Motorcyclist Killed On Meenach Bridge 21-Year-Old Man Apparently Drove Too Fast, Lost Control

A 21-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle accident on T.J. Meenach Bridge Sunday afternoon only 11 days after the motorcycle was purchased.

The cycle, which still had temporary plates, had racked up only 395 miles.

Police said they believe the victim was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base. His name won’t be released until relatives are notified. He’s believed to be from the Midwest, police said.

The accident happened at 1:06 p.m. The man drove down T.J. Meenach Drive apparently at a high speed, lost control and struck the bridge barrier, Spokane Police Sgt. Anthony Giannetto said.

“Then he launched off the motorcycle and landed down below,” he said.

The man, who was wearing a helmet, fell about 30 feet into the dirt and grass that slope up to the bridge.

He was taken to Sacred Heart Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Westbound traffic on T.J. Meenach Drive was blocked for several hours as police investigated the accident.

Near the corner of T.J. Meenach Drive and Cleveland, drivers heading for the bridge were forced to detour down to Sunset Highway and Government Way.

The motorcycle, a slightly crumpled black, red and white Honda 600, leaned against the bridge barrier. A faint skid mark about 35 feet long led up to the accident.

, DataTimes