Hit And Run Driver Jumps Off Overpass In Failed Escape Attempt

SPANAWAY, WA - A man suspected of hit and run and attempting to elude Pierce County deputies Sunday ended up needing surgery for multiple broken bones and a collapsed lung after he jumped from an State Route 167 overpass and fell roughly 75 feet into the brush below.

The unidentified man is reportedly still recovering following the incident that began near 176th Street and Canyon Road east in Spanaway around 5 p.m. Jan. 20.

Deputies initially tried to pull over the suspect for recklessly driving his Mazda Miata, but the suspect chose instead to flee and led deputies on a chase that went from eastbound SR 512 to northbound SR 167, police said.

On SR 167 the chase got jammed up in traffic, so the suspect reportedly tried to push through with his vehicle, striking at least two motorcyclists, according to The News Tribune, which also noted the suspect's age at 37 years old.

Once his car was no longer able to proceed, the suspect bailed and jumped from the overpass into the brush below, reportedly breaking one of his legs and several ribs.

After his fall, the suspect was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma.

Calls/emails to the Pierce County Sheriff's Office were not immediately returned. This post will be updated when more information is made available.

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Image via Pierce County Sheriff's Office