Pedestrian Killed in Suspected Drugged Driving Accident in Spokane

According to reporting from The Spokesman-Review, a pedestrian was killed in an intoxicated driving crash in downtown Spokane. The victim of the tragic crash was identified as 57-year-old James Edward Boyd. The at fault driver was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with several crimes, including a serious felony offense.

The motor vehicle collision is still being investigated by the Major Crimes Unit (MCU) of the Spokane Police Department. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to reach out to local law enforcement. Sadly, this is not the first deadly pedestrian accident reported in the Spokane region this year. Pedestrian safety must be improved.

Driver Had No License, Admitted to Methamphetamine Use

The heartbreaking fatal pedestrian collision occurred in downtown Spokane—near the intersection of Third Avenue and Howard Street. When police arrived, they discovered the victim trapped underneath the vehicle. Unfortunately, though they were able to free him, he was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

A spokesperson for the Spokane Police Department confirmed that David Macinnes, a 50-year-old man, was the responsible driver. Notably, Mr. Macinnes does not have a valid driver’s license. In addition, police observed immediate signs of intoxication. When questioned, he admitted to recent methamphetamine use. Police are still investigating to determine if alcohol or other drugs were also a factor. Mr. Macinnes was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide.

Drugged Driving Accidents are on the Rise in Washington

Drunk driving has long been a serious public problem in the United States. A large number of deadly and catastrophic accidents are linked to drunk driving. Still, there has been improvement. Since the 1970s, there have been strong efforts focused on reducing drunk driving. While DWIs & DUIs are still far too common in Washington, there is evidence that the public health campaign has had a positive impact. In fact, drunk driving rates are as much as 50 percent when compared to the 1980s.

That being said, the problem of drugged driving is getting worse. Drugged driving comes in many different forms, from the misuse of prescription medications to abuse of illegal substances. Drugged driving can be every bit as dangerous as drunk driving—in some cases, even more so. A recent study published by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) found that more drivers involved in fatal accidents tested positive for illicit drugs than alcohol. (44 percent vs. 36 percent). Although the data is murky, Washington officials believe that more drugged driving accidents are occurring in our state.

Call Our Spokane Pedestrian Accident Injury Attorneys for Help

At‌ ‌Albrecht‌ ‌Law‌ ‌PLLC, our Spokane motor vehicle accident lawyers have extensive experience handling pedestrian injury claims. If you or your loved one was injured or killed in a pedestrian collision, we will protect your rights. Contact us now to schedule your free, completely private case evaluation. From our Spokane law office, we represent injured pedestrians throughout Eastern Washington, including in Spokane County, Whitman County, Adams County, and Ferry County.