Paintballs Fired At Cyclist Cause Accident

Sun., June 20, 1999

A 16-year-old bicyclist remained in intensive care Saturday after being struck by a vehicle on the lower South Hill Friday night.

The teen, who was traveling west on Hartson Avenue, veered across traffic after being hit by paintballs fired from a passing car, Spokane police said.

Witnesses said the paintballs were fired from a dark blue two-door car as it drove by the bicyclist about 10:30 p.m.

Three people were in the car, police said.

Police aren’t sure if it was a random incident.

Trying to avoid the paintballs, the teen cut across Thor Street.

He was narrowly missed by a northbound car before being struck by a southbound vehicle. The driver was not cited by police.

The injured teen was in serious but stable condition at a local hospital Saturday afternoon. Police are asking anyone with information on the incident or suspects to call Crime Check at 456-2233.

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