KENNEWICK, WA – A high-speed crash last Friday night resulted in the arrest of a suspected drunk driver and left a 17-year-old with minor injuries, according to the Kennewick Police Department.
Just after 10 p.m. on May 3, officers responding to a call near Clearwater Avenue and Ridgeline Drive observed a dark-colored Audi traveling at an extremely high speed eastbound on Clearwater. Radar confirmed the vehicle was moving at 122 miles per hour.
Before police could intervene, the Audi ran a red light at West Steptoe Street and collided with a gray Volvo driven by a 17-year-old who was legally crossing the intersection. The impact sent both vehicles off the road and into a nearby field.
Emergency crews from the Kennewick Fire Department transported the teen to Kadlec Regional Medical Center. Fortunately, the injuries were minor, and the teen was released shortly after being treated.
The driver of the Audi, identified as 38-year-old Jake Musser, was found to be under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested at the scene and faces charges of DUI and reckless driving.
Kennewick Police’s Traffic Unit responded to conduct a full investigation and reconstruct the crash scene.
Authorities say they are grateful the incident didn’t result in more serious injuries and are reminding the public to never drink and drive and to obey speed limits.
“Lives depend on it,” the department said in a statement.