Spokane Police arrest both crash suspect, responding tow truck driver for DUI

May 11, 2020 7:16 AM

Erin Robinson,

Posted: May 11, 2020 7:16 AM

Updated: May 11, 2020 7:43 AM

by Erin Robinson

SPOKANE, Wash. — Police said a drunk driver who crashed her car and the tow truck driver who came to help clear the scene were both arrested for driving under the influence on Sunday.

Spokane Police officers first responded to reports of a crash near 1st Ave and Washington St. Sunday evening. Officers said a white Jeep Cherokee ran through a red light and caused the crash.

Witnesses said the Jeep blew red lights all down 1st Ave going 90 mph.

Officers contacted the suspect, 50-year-old Jennifer Petrik, who reportedly showed several signs of impairment. Petrick was arrested for DUI and taken to the hospital for her injuries. The people inside the other vehicle suffered minor injuries and were also taken to the hospital.

A little while later, a tow truck arrived to move one of the crashed vehicles from the road. The officer approached the tow truck and smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside.

The driver was identified as 53-year-old Kenen Pierce. As officers were talking with Pierce, the tow truck had some mechanical issues and backed into a patrol vehicle, causing minor damage to both vehicles.

A drug recognition expert arrived to the scene and said Kenen showed several signs of impairment. He was also arrested for driving under the influence.

The Spokane Police Department would like to use the incident as a reminder to drink and use marijuana responsible.

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