Spokane, Washington – Three People Injured in Crash Involving Stolen Vehicle

Spokane, Washington (April 17, 2020) – Three people were injured in a collision involving a stolen vehicle at East Sanson Street and North Nevada Street on Friday night. According to an article from The Spokesman-Review, the two men in the stolen car, 19 year-old Nicholas S. Kelley, and 24 year-old Devin S. Smith, were detained and taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The driver in the second vehicle involved sustained critical injuries and was also taken to the hospital for treatment.

According to information from the Spokane Police Department, the stolen car was spotted by an officer around 4:20 p.m. An officer attempted a traffic stop, but found the vehicle involved in a crash moments later. Kelley and Smith attempted to flee the scene on foot but were caught within minutes. Both have been booked into Spokane County Jail for several charges. The incident caused North Nevada Street to be closed from East Rowan Avenue to East Queen Avenue while police investigation was ongoing.

About Vehicle Accidents

In 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)  have reported a total of 120, 993 car accidents. Of those accidents, 525 were fatal and 34, 311 were possible or suspected of injuries. There are several types of collision that may happen, such as side collision, rollover collision, and head-on collision. Of the types of car accidents, head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous due to the circumstances – two cars are heading towards each other, with a great amount of force being experienced by all parties when the impact happens. While only 2% of car accidents are head-on collisions, they account for more than 10% of car-accident related injuries. These injuries are quite dangerous as most of them are head, spine or neck-related, including spinal injuries, brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and whiplash. Similarly, victims of side collisions and rollover collisions also suffer may also suffer head and neck injuries, though the risk is lower in these types of collisions. In rollover collisions, the car will come to rest on its side or roof, resulting in a dangerous situation which passengers might need to be extricated from. In side collisions, the greatest risk comes to the passenger on the particular side that received the impact. No matter the type of accident, all crashes are bound to cause a dreadful situation for all involved.

We urge all drivers to be careful while behind the wheel. When in a location where hazards such as poor illumination, rough roads or construction materials are present, be especially cautious. By doing this, we can ensure our safety as well as the safety of others in the nearby area.

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