Port Orchard, WA – Fatal Motorcycle Crash on Highway 16 Claims Two Lives, Disrupts Evening Traffic
Port Orchard, WA – Fatal Motorcycle Crash on Highway 16 Claims Two Lives, Disrupts Evening Traffic
Port Orchard, WA – A devastating motorcycle crash on Highway 16 in Port Orchard has claimed the lives of two Sequim residents and brought traffic to a halt on Friday evening, marking a tragic day on Washington’s roads. According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), the victims have been identified as 65-year-old David R. Smith and 68-year-old Vickie L. Carr, both longtime residents of Sequim, Washington.
Details of the Incident
The fatal crash occurred during the early evening hours on June 13, 2025, on westbound Highway 16, a major thoroughfare in Kitsap County that links commuters and travelers between Bremerton and Tacoma. Preliminary reports indicate that Smith and Carr were riding together on a motorcycle when the crash occurred.
The WSP has not yet released the full circumstances surrounding the crash, but early findings suggest that the motorcycle may have collided with another vehicle or lost control due to unknown factors. The crash is under active investigation, and authorities are working to determine whether speed, road conditions, driver error, or other variables played a role.
Emergency personnel were quickly dispatched to the scene, including Washington State Patrol troopers, Kitsap County deputies, and Port Orchard Fire & Rescue. Despite life-saving efforts, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Victims Identified
David R. Smith, 65, and Vickie L. Carr, 68, were both known members of the Sequim community, described by neighbors as warm, active individuals who enjoyed the freedom of riding and exploring Washington’s scenic highways. Family and friends are now grappling with the sudden loss, with condolences pouring in from across the Olympic Peninsula.
“David and Vickie were inseparable,” said a close family friend. “They shared a love for the open road, and it’s heartbreaking that their journey ended this way.”
Traffic Disruptions and Community Response
The crash caused significant disruptions to evening traffic on Highway 16 as lanes were shut down for several hours to allow investigators to document the scene and clean up debris. Commuters and weekend travelers faced extensive delays, with some diverted onto alternate routes as law enforcement urged drivers to avoid the area.
The WSP and local agencies worked tirelessly to reopen the roadway, but the crash served as a somber reminder of the potential dangers of highway travel, especially for motorcyclists who face greater risks due to limited protection in collisions.
Community members are expressing concern over the safety of the highway, which has seen its share of tragic incidents in recent years. “It’s a beautiful road, but it can also be treacherous,” one resident said. “We need better awareness and infrastructure to protect riders and drivers alike.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Washington State Patrol’s Major Accident Investigation Team is continuing its efforts to reconstruct the incident and determine what led to the deadly crash. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. on June 13 to contact WSP as they work to gather more information.
While no other injuries were reported, officials have not ruled out the involvement of additional vehicles, and no charges have been filed as of this time.
Safety Reminder
As riding season continues in Washington, state officials are reminding all drivers to stay alert, share the road, and double-check blind spots for motorcycles. With beautiful weather bringing more riders onto the highways, safety and vigilance remain paramount.
“We want to honor the memory of David and Vickie by encouraging every driver and rider to be more cautious,” said a WSP spokesperson. “Even a moment of distraction can have irreversible consequences.”
In Memoriam
Plans for a memorial service have not yet been announced, but members of the Sequim community are already discussing ways to honor the couple’s legacy. Friends describe them as avid adventurers and kind-hearted individuals who embraced life with joy and compassion.
“Our community has lost two very special people,” said a neighbor. “They were more than just riders—they were storytellers, friends, and people who brought light into every room.”
Anyone with information related to the crash is urged to contact the Washington State Patrol.
This is a developing story and may be updated as new information becomes available.
