Authorities reported that Curtis was riding a bicycle eastbound in the westbound lanes of SR 702 when he was hit by an oncoming car
McKenna, WA – The bicycle rider who was struck and killed by a car on State Route 702 in McKenna Thursday night has been identified.
According to the Washington State Patrol, Ty Curtis, 55, of Puyallup, died in the crash that happened west of State Route 507 on Thursday, January 22.
Authorities reported that Curtis was riding a bicycle eastbound in the westbound lanes of SR 702 when he was hit by an oncoming car.
The WSP troopers and emergency responders performed life-saving measures on Curtis, who was found in critical condition. Despite efforts by the paramedics, Curtis succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The involved 45-year-old driver and their 37-year-old passenger were not hurt in the crash.
The WSP report did not specify whether alcohol or drugs were involved in the crash. There were no arrests made in connection to the crash.
No additional details were available. The WSP is still investigating to find out what led up to the deadly collision.
Traffic-related accidents result in multiple injuries and deaths in Pierce County each year. Fatalities in the county have remained a serious concern, averaging 91 fatalities annually between 2021 and 2023. The situation worsened as it reached its highest point in 2023, when 95 lives were lost due to traffic collisions. Data from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) shows that a large share of these fatal crashes occurred on state highways, with Interstate 5 ranking among the most dangerous roadways in the county.
These routes are particularly hazardous due to a combination of sharp curves and heavy traffic flow, including frequent semi-truck activity. Such conditions often lead to risky passing maneuvers, increasing the likelihood of vehicles veering into oncoming lanes. In addition to roadway design and traffic volume, contributing factors commonly include impaired driving, excessive speed, unsafe passing, and driver distraction. Motorists are strongly encouraged to stay alert, especially when traveling through high-risk areas like I-5, to reduce the chances of being involved in a devastating crash.
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