Spokane, Washington — A fleeing driver allegedly struck a Spokane County K-9 patrol SUV, prompting arrest and investigation.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 11:00 p.m. Sunday near N. Normandie Avenue and W. Francis Avenue after Spokane Police began investigating reports of armed individuals entering a black Chrysler 300.
Authorities said officers attempted to stop the vehicle near N. Normandie Street and W. Nebraska Avenue, but the driver fled at high speed through a neighborhood. Spokane Police later disengaged from the pursuit due to safety concerns, while a department drone continued monitoring the vehicle from above.
During the incident, a Spokane County Sheriff’s K-9 deputy was stopped at the intersection of W. Columbia Avenue and N. Whitehouse Street after hearing radio traffic about the fleeing car.
Investigators say the Chrysler approached the intersection with its lights off and allegedly turned onto Columbia Avenue before striking the front passenger side of the deputy’s parked patrol SUV.
The deputy exited the disabled vehicle and observed two men fleeing on foot. According to authorities, one suspect complied with commands after being warned he could be bitten by the deputy’s K-9 partner.
Police later located the suspected driver nearby and identified him as 20-year-old Zamarius Wilder, who was arrested on suspicion of attempting to elude police and hit-and-run with injury, according to the Spokane Police Department.
The deputy was medically evaluated and suffered minor injuries, while the K-9 was not injured.
Investigators said the Chrysler 300 was seized pending a search warrant, and additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
The incident caused brief disruption in the surrounding neighborhood as officers searched for suspects.
Situations like this often draw attention from local commuters and students who travel through Spokane’s north-side residential corridors at night.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
