Driver Arrested for Vehicular Assault Following Auto/Bicycle Crash
Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit Investigators are investigating a crash where a vehicle struck a bicyclist on W. Curtis Road, near S. Curtis Branch Road. Due to possible life-threatening injuries, the bicyclist was transported to the hospital by Life Flight. The driver of the vehicle was arrested at the scene and charged with Vehicular Assault.
On July 20, 2021, at approximately 8:00 p.m., Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the report of a vehicle/bicycle crash in the 6800 block of W. Curtis Road.
The of the Subaru, later identified as 26-year-old Axilena M. White, remained at the scene and was contacted by Eastern Washington University Police Officers, who also responded to assist.
Due to the seriousness of the victim’s injuries, Spokane County Fire District 3 and AMR medical personnel requested the assistance of Life Flight to transport the victim to the hospital quickly, where she was listed in critical condition.
Spokane County Traffic Unit Investigators were called to the scene to continue the investigation. The roadway was temporarily closed to traffic with the assistance of SIRT Team Volunteers.
Initial information indicates the bicyclist was traveling west on W. Curtis Road when she was struck from behind by the Subaru, traveling in the same direction. The victim sustained severe injuries from the collision. Thankfully, this morning, her condition had improved, and she was listed in satisfactory condition.
During the investigation, White was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol, and a search warrant was obtained to collect a blood sample. With probable cause established, White was arrested and charged with Vehicular Assault.
White was transported and booked into the Spokane County Jail for Vehicular Assault, a felony.