Port Orchard, WA — A tragic motorcycle crash along Highway 16 in Port Orchard claimed the lives of two Sequim residents on Friday evening, causing major traffic delays and prompting a full investigation by the Washington State Patrol (WSP). The accident happened near the Tremont Street exit shortly after 5:00 p.m., right at the peak of the evening commute.
The victims have been identified as 65-year-old David R. Smith and 68-year-old Vickie L. Carr. Authorities say Smith was driving the motorcycle with Carr riding as his passenger when he suddenly lost control of the vehicle. Both were wearing helmets, but the crash proved fatal. Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save either individual. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to the WSP, preliminary findings show that no other vehicles were involved in the crash. Investigators believe the motorcycle veered off course and crashed on its own, but the exact cause remains unknown. Officials have not ruled out possible factors such as mechanical failure, road conditions, or a medical emergency. Speed has not been cited as a contributing factor at this time.
The fatal crash forced the closure of all eastbound lanes of Highway 16 near the Tremont exit, creating a major backup for drivers heading toward Bremerton. Traffic remained stalled for several hours as officers, crash scene analysts, and emergency crews worked to investigate and clear the scene. Drivers were asked to take Anderson Hill Road as an alternate route, but congestion quickly spread throughout the area.
WSP spokesperson Katherine Weatherwax called the crash a “heartbreaking loss” and extended condolences to the families of Smith and Carr. “We are working diligently to understand exactly what caused this tragedy,” she said. “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the victims.”
The roadway was eventually reopened later that night after all debris was cleared and investigators completed their work at the scene. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from that time to contact the Washington State Patrol. The investigation remains active as officials continue to search for answers in the aftermath of this tragic event.