A motorcycle rider lost his life near the intersection of Columbia Drive and Jean Street in Kennewick last night just before 8 PM, and a 19-year-old driver is now sitting in the Benton County Jail facing a charge of vehicular homicide.
This is a serious and devastating story for everyone involved.
New Details Released in Sunday Evening Kennewick Motorcycle Fatal Crash
According to a recent release, Kennewick Police Officers and Kennewick Fire Department personnel responded to a vehicle-versus-motorcycle collision shortly before 8 PM last night (Sunday). When crews arrived, they immediately began life-saving measures on the motorcycle rider, although he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Then officers realized the driver of the vehicle involved, identified as 19-year-old Valeria Benitez-Hernandez, allegedly exhibited signs of impairment at the scene. She was arrested and booked into the Benton County Jail on a charge of vehicular homicide.
What Comes Next
The Kennewick Police Department traffic unit is actively investigating this collision and the circumstances around it. Vehicular homicide in Washington state is a serious felony charge that carries significant prison time, especially when impairment is a factor in the death of another person.
If you were near the intersection of Columbia Drive and Jean Street in Kennewick last night around 8 PM and saw anything related to this collision, KPD needs to hear from you.
Contact Kennewick Police directly at 509-628-0333 or submit a tip at kpdtips.com.
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