Man wrecks car going 135 mph on Interstate 82. Driver sought by state troopers

A man is on the run after wrecking his car on Interstate 82 going 135 mph near Benton City.

A Washington State Patrol trooper spotted a Honda heading east going 105 mph near Yakitat Road just after 1 p.m. Friday, Trooper Chris Thorson said. By the time the trooper pulled onto the road, the driver accelerated to 135 mph.

The trooper was a mile behind the Honda when the driver lost control, and skidded across the median, the westbound lanes and finally stopped on the shoulder of the westbound lanes.

The three people who had been inside the vehicle bolted toward the Yakima River before the trooper caught up.

The group talked about jumping into the river to trying and swim away, but one of the passengers decided against it and turned himself in, said officers.

The driver and the other passenger were able to flee. A Benton County deputy saw them briefly hop into the river, and then ran off, according to officers.

Troopers believe they know who was driving the car, and are looking for him. They don’t believe anyone was hurt.

Speeders continue to create problems on state highways and interstates, Thorson said. Hours before the crash, he posted a video asking people to watch their speed this weekend.

“Please, we’re asking nicely, do not come out onto these highways and drive as fast as possible,” he said. “Troopers are still out here patrolling the highways.”

This story was originally published April 10, 2020 at 4:34 PM.