A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of multiple crimes, including vehicular assault, after a high-speed crash in the Nisqually Valley left his brother critically injured. The incident, which took place on Saturday night, has raised serious concerns due to the driver’s reckless behavior and the severity of the passenger’s injuries.
The Crash
According to Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders, around 9 p.m., a deputy spotted a Dodge Charger speeding at 60 miles per hour in a 35 mph zone on Martin Way East. When the deputy attempted to follow the vehicle, the driver accelerated to speeds exceeding 100 mph, despite the absence of emergency lights.
The chase ended when the driver crashed into a cement barrier near the Interstate 5 on-ramp in the Nisqually Valley. The vehicle was occupied by four people, including the driver and his two brothers, one of whom sustained serious injuries in the crash.
The Injuries
The critically injured passenger, who was reported to be paralyzed from the crash, is one of the driver’s brothers and is an active-duty military member. The second passenger suffered minor injuries and was taken to an area hospital for treatment.
“We are hoping the critically injured victim makes the fullest recovery possible,” Sheriff Sanders said in his post, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Investigation and Arrest
Further investigation revealed that the vehicle was equipped with camera equipment commonly used by individuals who record themselves engaging in dangerous high-speed driving or fleeing from police. Additionally, the driver was found to be in possession of a firearm.
The 22-year-old driver was arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of several charges, including vehicular assault, reckless driving, reckless endangerment, and domestic violence-related reckless endangerment.
Ongoing Legal Process
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the crash and the driver’s actions. The family, especially the critically injured brother, is hopeful for a full recovery.
