19-year-old Pasco man killed in high-speed motorcycle crash in Kennewick

A motorcycle rider died after a Monday night crash in downtown Kennewick.

Eleazar Villegas-Gonzalez, 19, Pasco, was speeding east on Columbia Drive about 10 p.m. when he lost control just past the intersection with Fruitland Drive, Commander Isaac Merkl told the Tri-City Herald. The motorcycle veered into the westbound lanes and hit the curb in front of the car wash.

The rider was thrown, and hit the metal pole holding the car wash sign, Merkl said.

When Kennewick police arrived on the scene, they began giving medical aid until Kennewick firefighters arrived. He was then taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Kennewick Police Traffic Unit is investigating the crash, and closed a section of Columbia Drive after the wreck.

Speed is believed to be a factor.

Coroner Bill Leach said there won’t be an autopsy done.

This story is developing. Please check back for more information.

This story was originally published October 7, 2025 at 10:16 AM.