SPOKANE VALLEY, WA — A man wanted on an active warrant was arrested Saturday afternoon after allegedly running a red light and causing a two-vehicle collision while driving under the influence, according to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the crash at the intersection of E. Appleway Boulevard and S. Park Road around 2 p.m. on June 28. A witness reported that a Chrysler van, driven by 55-year-old Christopher I. McLeod, was traveling eastbound and turning south when it collided with a Volkswagen SUV traveling south on Park Road.
According to investigators, both the witness and the driver of the SUV said McLeod failed to stop at the red light, causing the crash. The female driver of the SUV was treated at the scene for what appeared to be minor injuries.
Deputies said McLeod showed clear signs of impairment, including unsteadiness, difficulty following directions, and a strong odor of alcohol. McLeod claimed he had not been drinking and alleged the other driver ran the red light. He also admitted he did not have a valid driver’s license or insurance.
A separate witness reported seeing McLeod’s van driving at high speeds and in a reckless manner earlier on Interstate 90. The witness stated the van nearly ran off the road after overcorrecting during a lane change.
McLeod reportedly failed to complete field sobriety tests and refused a breath test. Deputies obtained a warrant for a blood sample and transported him to the Spokane County Jail.
McLeod was booked for Driving Under the Influence and on a misdemeanor warrant for Malicious Mischief in the third degree, related to a March 2025 incident involving property damage. He was also cited for driving without a license, driving without insurance, and failing to stop at a red light.
Judge A. Maurer set bail at $5,000 for the DUI charge, and Judge J. Fassbender set bail at $2,500 for the outstanding warrant, bringing the total bond to $7,500. McLeod remained in custody as of the time of the press release.
Both vehicles involved in the crash were towed due to significant damage. The incident remains under investigation.
