A motorcycle accident on southbound SR 167 in Auburn claimed the life of a 24-year-old Kent man on Monday, Sept. 28, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The crash occurred around 12:46 p.m. just north of SR 18, blocking the roadway for approximately four hours. Authorities reported that speed and an improper lane change were factors in the incident.
A 28-year-old Seattle man, the driver of the car involved, was not injured but is facing charges of vehicular homicide, WSP said.
Witnesses indicated that both the motorcycle and car were traveling in the fourth lane when the car changed lanes into the motorcycle’s path. The impact ejected the rider into the fourth lane, where he was pronounced dead at the scene. Both vehicles came to rest on the right side of the roadway.
The motorcyclist was wearing a DOT-approved helmet, according to the State Patrol. The investigation into whether drugs or alcohol were factors is ongoing.
The identity of the motorcyclist will be released by the King County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Trooper Rick Johnson urged motorists to seek alternate routes due to the lane closures resulting from the fatal collision. Further updates will follow.