In brief: One dead, two injured in motorcycle crashes

Thomas E. McCracken, 64, of Spokane, died at the scene of a motorcycle crash on Rock Lake Road near St. John in Whitman County just before noon Sunday.

Another motorcycle driven by Gary A. Morris, 54, crashed at the same time, injuring Morris and his passenger, April M. Morris, 48. Both are from Spokane Valley.

Five motorcycles were traveling together at the time of the crashes.

Witnesses told Whitman County sheriff’s deputies that it appeared McCracken and Morris failed to negotiate a left-hand turn in the roadway and crashed when they got caught in the gravel on the shoulder. At no point did the motorcycles collide.

Gary and April Morris suffered minor injuries and were transported to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center by ambulance.

The motorcycle riders were all experienced and wearing helmets and protective clothing, according to the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office.

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