Car sparks brush fire, crashes into Columbia River
A driver was cited for reckless driving after their vehicle went into the Columbia River and caused a brush fire, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The driver’s vehicle reportedly left the roadway on northbound U.S. Route 97 Alternate in Chelan County before 11:25 a.m. Sunday.
The driver was able to escape the vehicle before it went into the water and they were transported to a hospital to be treated for minor injuries.
The highway was closed for about 45 minutes while authorities responded to the scene, according to Jeremy Weber, WSP public information officer.
The vehicle will be floated to Lincoln Rock State Park near East Wenatchee for recovery.
The Department of Ecology is also responding to the scene.
BREAKING! One vehicle left the roadway NB 97A and went into the Columbia River. Driver was able to escape and has been transported to the hospital. Injuries are unknown. Expect delays as traffic is being alternated in one lane by @WSDOT_East Updates to follow.
— Trooper Jeremy Weber (@wspd6pio) August 14, 2022
— Trooper Jeremy Weber (@wspd6pio) August 15, 2022