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Update: Motorcyclist killed in 35th/Juneau collision

April 13, 2011 9:49 pm
|      120 COMMENTS
 |   High Point | West Seattle news

(THURSDAY MORNING UPDATE, 7:16 AM: Seattle Police says the motorcyclist did not survive)

9:49 PM: Traffic is blocked right now in at least one direction on 35th SW in the Findlay/Juneau area (map) for a medic response at a crash scene. Initial scanner reports said a car and motorcycle were involved. More shortly.

9:56 PM: 35th SW is currently blocked both ways at the scene, and SW Juneau is being blocked as well. And the scanner indicates the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad is responding, which means both that someone is apparently seriously hurt and that the road will be at least partly closed for some time.

10 PM: We are at the scene. A wrecked motorcycle and vehicle are in view. The scanner indicates one person is receiving CPR while being rushed to Harborview Medical Center. Some traffic is getting through southbound, but northbound 35th and westbound Juneau are being taped off. Avoid the area TFN.

10:08 PM: Authorities at the scene confirm the person taken to the hospital is the motorcycle rider. The driver of the car (photo just added, above) was not hurt seriously, if at all. Given the hour, we may not have significant updates on the crash’s cause/victim’s status before morning, but we’ll be checking, and we’ll also check back on the road-closure status.

11:56 PM: Adding that clip from the scene, before the investigation team arrived – a little bit of perspective to where the motorcycle and car ended up. We drove through the area about 15 minutes ago; the northbound lanes remain blocked while investigators work, as does westbound Juneau east of 35th, and 35th traffic is being allowed through the southbound lanes, with northbound and southbound alternating.

1:34 AM: Police just announced (relayed via scanner) that 35th SW is fully open again at the scene.

7:16 AM: Seattle Police have just confirmed what a WSB commenter has posted – the motorcyclist died. Det. Mark Jamieson says he does not know the man’s age, nor that of the woman driving the car with which the motorcycle collided. He says the motorcycle was traveling northbound and the car traveling southbound, turning left (eastbound) onto Juneau, when the two collided.

7:33 AM: Det. Jamieson has published the police summary to SPD Blotter; it adds that witnesses told police the motorcyclist was traveling “at a high rate of speed.” Meantime, we are checking WSB archives for the last deadly crash in West Seattle; so far, we aren’t finding one more recent than this March 2010 incident at 37th/Admiral.

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120 Replies to "Update: Motorcyclist killed in 35th/Juneau collision"

  • Nathan April 13, 2011 (9:52 pm)

    I actually heard it! I heard the impact and the glass shatter. Hope everyone is ok. They’ve diverted traffic onto Juneau and 36th.

  • jen April 13, 2011 (9:55 pm)

    Drove by right after. I am praying for the motorcyclist. He was down when I drove by. Hope everyone is okay.

  • Mat April 13, 2011 (9:56 pm)

    35th is closed in both directions between Findlay and Juneau, police are redirecting to 36th. Looks like at least two fire engines on scene.

  • Jessica April 13, 2011 (9:56 pm)

    I just drove by it and the motorcyclist is in the middle of the road face down. Many vehicles are stopped to assist. No police on scene as of 5 minutes ago.

  • Westsider April 13, 2011 (9:57 pm)

    The motorcycle rider was definitely not okay, but hopefully he was just thrown and did not suffer direct impact with the car. He was laying 30 feet from his bike and what seemed like 40-50 feet from the impact. The driver of the car is also being treated right now but seems to be in better shape.

  • LyndaB April 13, 2011 (9:58 pm)

    Very bad. Motorcycle visible from where I am on the corner in my house. Medic one has left the scene. From where the bike is, the medics had to run north of the intersection.
    This intersection is bad. My dad said there was an accident this morning, too.

  • Mat April 13, 2011 (9:59 pm)

    Ok, it’s back open southbound now… looks like northbound is still being diverted.

  • LyndaB April 13, 2011 (10:23 pm)

    I started praying the moment I heard the sound. It has become second nature because it has happened more times than I can count. There was a driver who pulled over and must’ve witnessed the entire thing because she was taking it really hard. Her companion had to hold her back from rushing toward the injured person.

  • SJ2 April 13, 2011 (10:24 pm)

    We just walked by. It looks horrible. :(

  • kp April 13, 2011 (10:46 pm)

    I heard and then saw the accident. I live a few houses down from the intersection. Way to many accidents on that corner. When will we get a light and crosswalk? I hope all is well with the people involved.

  • Mookie April 13, 2011 (11:04 pm)

    Traffic Collision Investigation Squad just arrived a few minutes ago.

  • SJ2 April 13, 2011 (11:10 pm)

    They do really need a light there, I can’t even count the number of times I have almost been hit there. I really do hope everyone is okay. That motorcycle looked bad.

  • Hoyne April 13, 2011 (11:12 pm)

    Is this related to the police activity at 32nd and Webster about 20 minutes ago?

  • tink April 13, 2011 (11:21 pm)

    hey i was just by there at 10:30on the way home it looks real bad for the motorcycle driver the bike is reall y mangled and with the damage to the car from a medical standpoint if he survives the injuries he will be in critical condition the chances are slim but hopefully hell be the one that beats the odds

  • Seaview April 13, 2011 (11:42 pm)

    Did anyone see what kind of bike? I’m praying for the motorcyclist, but praying extra hard that it isn’t my buddy.

  • Alki resident April 13, 2011 (11:51 pm)

    People just pray.

  • ThnkUrLuckyStars April 14, 2011 (12:20 am)

    My dad was almost killed a block down from here a few years back. There was a car waiting to turn, his car, also turning, a car behind him waiting. Someone wasn’t paying attention and slammed into all 3. 6 months later he had a stroke from a main blood vain splitting like a straw and letting blood platelettes(sp?) pool. 3 strokes later he’s luck to be alive, let alone functioning as if it never happened. Hoping all parties involved will recover as well as my dad did. Remember, PLEASE use your TURN SIGNALS, they are standard on every car, LEGALLY it’s 100feet before you turn– not as you are turning.

  • Tyler April 14, 2011 (12:38 am)

    As of 12:25 the road is still blocked northbound on 35th from Raymond to Juneau. Looks like it could be a while.

  • Forrest April 14, 2011 (12:52 am)

    Other news sources are reporting that the motorcyclist is a man in his twenties and that he sustained life-threatening injuries.

    Seaview, the bike looks like a small dual-purpose bike, my guess is an XT225. You can see in the video that it has semi-knobby tires which are not good on wet roads.

    From the damage to the car, the bike had to be moving pretty good, so was most likely traveling on 35th Northbound and the car, traveling South, turned left in front of him and the bike couldn’t avoid the car, hit the rear fender and spun the car around. This is the most common car/bike collision scenario. Car driver will undoubtedly say say “I didn’t see him”. Turn signals wouldn’t have helped. Actually paying attention would have.

    • WSB April 14, 2011 (1:00 am)

      ‘Other news sources’ didn’t have two people at the scene (Patrick and Katie were it) and one person on the scanner (me). Life-threatening, I would certainly say that’s what CPR (among other measures they were taking, per monitored communication between medic-unit crew and hospital staff) translates to. As for age and whether he survived, we should know within a few hours. – TR

  • Forrest April 14, 2011 (1:09 am)

    Thanks TR. Yes, “other news sources” only have the approx two sentence blurb from a fire department spokesperson. And yes, my assumptions about what happened are just that.
    Would you happen to know what color the bike is/was? It looks scarily familiar.

    • WSB April 14, 2011 (1:17 am)

      Sorry to say that aside from the video clip we added, I don’t have any other visual info and both of the aforementioned went-to-scene team members have now called it quits for the night so I can’t ask them. Couldn’t tell from driving by at 11:40 pm – orange streetlight shining right down on the wreckage.

  • Mn April 14, 2011 (5:01 am)

    It is a horrible intersection
    What will it take to get lights put in
    Hope all
    Involved recover

  • anon April 14, 2011 (5:23 am)

    The motorcyclest passed away. He was a great man and a father of a 2 year old boy…

  • Magpie April 14, 2011 (5:50 am)

    I can’t believe how many accidents there are at this intersection. My brother lives between Juneau and Findlay on 35th and we always go down to Findlay and wait for the light if we need to go left on 35th. Cars just go so fast that it is hard to get out safely. Can’t say that’s what happened, but never the less, this intersection has seen its fair share of accidents.

  • Darren April 14, 2011 (7:13 am)

    According to the news last night the guy driving the motorcycle didn’t have his lights on.

    • WSB April 14, 2011 (7:32 am)

      Any “news” that reported on this got to the scene a lot later than our crew did – no other media crews were in sight the whole time we were – and that’s not part of what police just told us; in cases like this, the final report is often not out for months. Det. Jamieson has just posted the police summary to SPD Blotter and there is no mention of lights – only that witnesses say the motorcycle was traveling “at a high rate of speed.” – TR

  • Ken April 14, 2011 (7:38 am)

    I have not checked lately, but most street legal bikes automatically have the headlight on when the motor is running or the switch is in the on position.

    People can alter this but most large road bikes will not start if the headlight circuit is interrupted.

    On/off road bikes may be different.

  • Mike April 14, 2011 (7:49 am)

    sad… always makes me sad to hear news end like this

  • 22blades April 14, 2011 (7:52 am)

    Turn signals are to warn of a turn or lane change change ahead of time, not something to “stay legal with”. Unfortunately, too may people don’t care.

  • old timer April 14, 2011 (7:54 am)

    I am so sorry to hear of a death so close to home
    and so senseless.
    High speed or not, left turn in front of oncoming traffic…
    Is there any description of the vehicle?

  • Alki resident April 14, 2011 (7:59 am)

    Please give name when available WSB.

  • jiggers April 14, 2011 (8:01 am)

    Not a way to die. The Fauntleroy and Juneau (S) curve is probably the most dangerous section in W.S. I’ve lived there before for several years and seen at least five traffic fatalaties. Motorists coming off the bridge speed notoriously no matter what time of day or night. I’m guessing to make the ferry run. In this type of instance, I usually won’t sugarcoat how he got into an accident that caused his death but, until further details are available, we can’t speculate who’s fault it was. So I’ll keep my lip shut. R.I.P.

    • WSB April 14, 2011 (8:26 am)

      To put an emphasis point on what Jiggers said, yet again, blame and speculation will not be published – ‘blaming the victim’ is explicitly against WSB commenting rules. Someone has died, and after the top-level police investigation squad spent three-plus hours at the scene, taking measurements, studying wreckage, talking to witnesses, among other things, it will take them months to put together a report to say what led to this, and that will be the final word. This intersection itself has been the scene of previous crashes, and also of pedestrian concerns – we covered a rally in 2008 that followed a collision that put a teenager in the hospital:
      https://westseattleblog.com/2008/10/report-2-35thjuneau-safety-rally-and-a-crash-hours-later
      .
      As that report notes, there was a crash hours after the rally. – TR

  • Jenn April 14, 2011 (8:34 am)

    This is awful. We went by the scene around 10pm and we were horrified by the condition of the bike and the car. From a street engineering perspective, I feel that preventing cars from entering Juneau at 35th from the east with a Do Not Enter sign makes sense. Replacing the Findlay light with one at Juneau is another alternative, given that in my opinion there’s more traffic coming in and out of High Point through Juneau than Findlay, particularly since Juneau connects to Delridge. I encourage the neighbors at that intersection to initiate communication with SDOT to prevent more accidents. Needless to say, 35th SW and Juneau is and it’s been a hazard to drivers and pedestrians.

  • MB April 14, 2011 (8:36 am)

    Scary. My brother flipped his car there after being hit by someone in 2002…luckily all were ok (minus the cars). So sad to hear the opposite outcome here ;( I’ll be thinking of the family and from what someone said above, this man’s child. It breaks my heart when a child is cheated out of knowing their parent ;(

  • withheld April 14, 2011 (8:52 am)

    I read this report this morning and all the comments, forming an opinion about who may have been at fault etc… Then I checked my e-mail and found out I know the young man (father, brother and son) who died . . . heartbreaking . . . all of a sudden fault does not matter.

  • MB April 14, 2011 (9:08 am)

    Totally agree, Withheld…so sorry for the loss of your friend. I’m worried I might get a message like that given his age. Its just horrible no matter how you look at it.

  • toddinwestwood April 14, 2011 (9:17 am)

    Godspeed my two wheeled brother. Godspeed.

  • Speedy April 14, 2011 (9:26 am)

    I frequently pickup the 21 bus from 35th and Juneau and I’m constantly amazed at the driving transgressions that take place. Namely:

    1. Speeding – appropriately nicknamed I-35
    2. Frequent lane changes – dodging “slower” traffic
    3. Improper signaling – turn signal should be on *before* slowing down
    4. Ignoring stop sign – either rolling right thru the stop sign or not stopping at the crosswalk
    5. Traffic turning left from the stop sign failing to yield to oncoming traffic – it’s a two way stop, not a four way stop. Learn the difference.

    Note: This intersection sees more traffic than usual because it’s a bypass to/from Delridge. I’m all for a signal at this intersection. My preference, though, is for a Fauntleroy type road diet. I’m fed up with the fatalities, accidents and all around dangerous driving I witness every single day on I-35.

  • shane April 14, 2011 (9:35 am)

    I am a rider and this is the most common of motorcycle accidents. Motorists, please take a second look before making a left turn across traffic. Motorcyclists, please drive defensively, dress appropriately (including some lighter colors), and realize many drivers just don’t see you. Autos and motorcyclists, PLEASE don’t drive like a bat out of hell. Speed limits are there for a reason. My thoughts and prayers to all involved….

  • george April 14, 2011 (9:54 am)

    It’s also the shortest route from Fauntleroy to 35th, so Juneau sometimes acts like an arterial and carries a heavy load in both directions. Even the traffic circles don’t slow people down the hill from 36th to 39th.

  • george April 14, 2011 (9:56 am)

    When was the downpour last night? I remember hearing the wind and rain kick up on the windows, may that have obstructed visibility and traction?

    • WSB April 14, 2011 (10:02 am)

      George – there was a downpour immediately after this. My co-publisher was out the door about five minutes after the call popped up on the 911 log, and he came back inside for his hat, declaring “it’s starting to rain.” It got more intense from there, and he was soaked to the bone when he returned – TR

  • Brit April 14, 2011 (10:03 am)

    I am sorry that we live in a culture that thrives on other’s pain and suffering. News is one thing, but please explain why it was necessary to include the video. When we learn to think of other’s needs first, and learn graciousness and consideration for those who are suffering – perhaps then we can consider ourselves seeing to the best interest of the public.

    • WSB April 14, 2011 (10:25 am)

      Brit – We have already had to answer one request that we take down the visuals for this story (the first time we have ever received such a request in connection with something like this), so I will elaborate on our attempt to explain: The video clip shows the vehicles that were involved. Minus blood. Minus the victim. Minus the driver. Minus anyone else at the scene distraught or being comforted/treated. All of which we would not show, because those are our longstanding self-imposed rules, far stricter than what I ever either set, evangelized, or was required to follow in other news organizations big and small. (I remain surprised that no TV stations crossed the bridge for this, as they have done for incidents of less import, but I can assure you that if they had, the scene would have been shot far differently.)
      .
      In addition, we moderate comments, and will not approve any (as I have written above) that seek to impose blame, or speculation. But censoring the imagery further is a line that we will not cross. Showing the wreckage is not a case of “thriving on others’ pain and suffering.” We are reporting on a tragic incident that happened. For both the bad and the good, our news organization covers what happens in West Seattle – much more often the latter, thankfully, but we cannot ignore the former. Not showing the wreckage does not change the fact that it happened. It closed part of a main road for more than three hours and the wreckage was publicly visible to hundreds who drove by. It is the latest in a long series of incidents that have led to death and injury on this one particular stretch of roadway, and that is a situation that affects the entire community of 80,000+ people – there have been repeat calls for safety improvements on this stretch, beyond those that have been made. Maybe something will change this time. Thank you for your comment – TR

  • Jim April 14, 2011 (10:04 am)

    Well said Shane. A single headlight of a motorcycle gives no depth percetion to an oncoming left turning vehicle, and it can be lost in the background lights of parking lots and other vehicles.

  • Westsider April 14, 2011 (10:05 am)

    My thoughts go out to the family and friends of the motorcycle driver. I live right where this accident took place, saw it 30 seconds after it happened, and it was horrific. The police response was very fast and fire/medic one was soon to follow. I do have to echo Speedy’s comments that Interstate 35 needs a road diet similar to Fauntelroy’s. The double lanes promote traffic dodging speeders and abrupt stops due to left turners. One lane of traffic in each direction with a center turn lane would be far superior and would easily be able to handle the traffic on this street. Lets turn I-35 back into 35th Avenue Southwest.

  • J&J April 14, 2011 (10:10 am)

    What’s the best forum to communicate with the city on this? I think moving the light at Findley is the best opiton, it doesn’t get used nearly as much. I live right off Juneau and would happily welcome a “No Etry” sign turning left onto Juneau, but not sure how much it would help without a light. The fact is that it is a much used connector between Delridge & 35th, so blocking entry might just push the problem towards residential streets that are not equipped for heavier traffic.

  • Raul April 14, 2011 (10:30 am)

    I live immediately in front of where the accident took place. I heard the noise and went outside. My sister beat me to the scene and told me there was an old white van that immediately sped off southbound from the scene. She feels like the van had something to do with it. She went to the officer and told him but was disregarded.

    This is the second death in front of my house I have seen. One where a boy was shot and now this. Several accidents happen in this intersection. There needs to be a stop light even if it may cause a bit more traffic. People speed way too much here for there to be a bus stop right in front. Imagine if this happens again and the cars hit my house and bystanders waiting for the bus.

  • amalia April 14, 2011 (10:31 am)

    Stellar reporting as usual, WSB. Although my heart aches over this, I’m so grateful to you.

  • kyle April 14, 2011 (10:43 am)

    you where a GREAT friend R I P buddy helped me out tons YOU WILL BE MISSED DEEPLY love you man

  • jsv April 14, 2011 (10:57 am)

    J&J I totally agree. Why is there a light at Finley and not Juneau!? I take my life into my hands every day crossing 35th at Juneau. It’s so dangerous. A bunch of people banded together 2 years ago and got the light put in at Raymond (library). We could all do the same. I’m reaching out to the person who helped get the light put in at Raymond for advice. I think they even got the mayor involved.

  • Speedy April 14, 2011 (11:10 am)

    jsv – If I remember correctly there was a video posted of a kid trying to cross 35th at Raymond with some mucky mucks present. Not sure if it was related but a traffic signal was installed soon after.

  • kp on 35th April 14, 2011 (11:12 am)

    I am all for getting together and getting the city to put in a light. It is way over due. I can recall several accidents and little girl getting hit a few summers ago.

  • Anon April 14, 2011 (11:26 am)

    Such a sad loss of a wonderful young man. He will be missed by all of us. We love you!

  • Anon2 April 14, 2011 (11:37 am)

    R.I.P. He was a great friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

  • amalia April 14, 2011 (11:57 am)

    +I agree with all this, but a light would not have prevented this. Both vehicles were traveling on 35th, as I understand it. They would have both had the green unless a car had tripped the light from the crossroad.

  • mcbride April 14, 2011 (12:06 pm)

    I too live on 35th, just a little ways down from this intersection. This is a very dangerous stretch of road – multiple vehicle/pedestrian fatalities in the last couple years, and way, way too many near misses.
    .
    I’ve campaigned for crosswalks (which, on 35th, would require a streetlight), both through SDOT and the DON street funds process, without success. (I agree with Speedy’s comments above, the real answer here is a road diet). In both cases, the answers amounted to “Look, that’s just not going to happen.” My takeaway is that in some cases, following process is well and good. In others, it is no substitute for good old fashioned neighborhood organizing.
    .
    So. Are you troubled, concerned, upset, angry or outraged by the public safety situation on this stretch of road? There is very little administrative interest in adjusting this traffic corridor. If you want change here you must require it, Demand it, from your city. Here’s a couple ways to get involved:
    .
    Put some pressure on SDOT: http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/
    .
    Tell the mayor you want a road diet on this stretch of 35th: http://www.seattle.gov/mayor/
    .
    West Seattle resident and Council Member Tom Rasmussen chairs the Transportation Committee, tell him how you feel: http://www.seattle.gov/council/rasmussen/committees.htm
    .
    Most importantly, get involved with your neighborhood or district council and multiply your voice on this and many other issues concerning where you live. Call or email your South Zone Neighborhood District Coordinator to find out how to get involved: http://www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/nsc/southregion.htm

  • Lita April 14, 2011 (12:19 pm)

    He was the father of my grandson who is 2yrs old, he loved his daddy, how do you explain such a tragedy to a 2 yr old. I am so sad for my grandson my daughter, his parents, and his sisters. What a sad day for all of us.

  • jiggers April 14, 2011 (12:31 pm)

    W.S.B. doesn’t need to justfy itself in how they choose to report on something important.

  • Karen Norbeck April 14, 2011 (12:31 pm)

    My thoughts and prayers go out to this loving West Seattle family who has lost their son, brother, dad, and lover. Bless you all as you travel through your grief and share your memories.

  • bryan gilleney April 14, 2011 (12:44 pm)

    Andrew was for all purposes my son .he is my best friend in the worlds son …………Andrew was a big brother to my son also..bye for now my frind i love you and in absolute denial and ANGUISH i can never see you again

  • visitor April 14, 2011 (1:16 pm)

    Keep the photos up! Everyone needs to see this. People who complain remind me of the US govt blocking photos of body bags and caskets during war. Don’t sanitize. RIP Andrew. godspeed.

  • LyndaB April 14, 2011 (1:17 pm)

    my thoughts and prayers are with the family in this difficult time.
    –
    i wrote to SDOT just now. i actually wrote the seattle times regarding this intersection and at the time the response from SDOT was the number of incidents were far in between. what is the data now? is it enough?
    –
    re: the white van. my sister said something about it, too. but i didn’t see it myself. i couldn’t understand what my sister’s explanation. will have to ask her.

  • RaRuKo April 14, 2011 (1:33 pm)

    I am in shock that something like this has happened. We’ll all miss you Andrew, always a smiley, sweet, funny guy who really lived it up. Prayers go out to your family. God Bless your family and comfort them.

  • Rebecca K. April 14, 2011 (2:27 pm)

    We were friends and neighbors to Andrew and his family, my daughter dated him for a while. He ws a sweet father and had a gentle spirit. We really liked him very much. He was very funny and had such an inventive soul. He and his sweet son very often rode by our home on one of his homeade bikes. Andrew we love you and will miss you. To Andrews family please let us know if you need anything and when his service is. You are in our prayers. God Bless.

  • MB April 14, 2011 (2:32 pm)

    My feeling this morning was right, I did know Andrew. One of his sisters was my best friend in middle school. I hadn’t seen Andrew in years beyond the beautiful pictures of his family that his sister posted on Facebook, but I will say that I have nothing but good memories of him. He was the kind of kid that was just a pleasure to be around, sweet smile and sweet demeanor. Most of my friends’ brothers were s#%t heads at that age, but I was never annoyed by Andrew being around while I played at their house. My heart is very heavy today.This is a fantastic family and Andrew was a fantastic young man with a beautiful love and a beautiful child. My pain comes nowhere close to what they are going through, but I want them to know that so many of us are sharing in their grief right now and sending them strength.

  • Cait April 14, 2011 (3:17 pm)

    “Not showing the wreckage does not change the fact that it happened.” The same could be said for the other things you have said that you leave out here – showing footage of people grieving doesn’t change that it happened, either. This same justification could be used to support the posting of worse images and I understand that it is your blog and you will do what you want with it, but I think that showing the video is a variance of a degree of what you’re talking about here as indecent. The only reason that I would seek out a video of any part of this would be morbid curiousity and not informational purposes and I don’t relish someone else doing my morbid curiosity-ing for me or for others.

    I think as a local news source you do have to sanitize things just a little because you are acknowledging that most of this information is about and for West Seattle residents and when a great deal of us are affected by something like this it seems there should be some outreach to guage whether or not people even want to see things like that knowing that it may be a friend or neighbor or acquaintance. And I’d appreciate that effort being made… but that’s just my opinion.

    I knew Andrew and I will remember him very fondly. He was an incredibly funny person and any experience was more fun when he was there. My thoughts are with his friends and family. I’m still shocked…

  • Melissa April 14, 2011 (3:54 pm)

    My heart and prayers go out to Andrew’s family, his beautiful son (that he loved through and through, proven to me by the way he lighted up when he spoke of him) and all the lives he’s ever touched, including my own. Andrew was the most amazing guy out there who has filled my life experiences with so many moments of laughter and love. He will forever hold a special place in my heart… RIP Andrew, you’ll forever be missed. <3

  • Sonny April 14, 2011 (4:27 pm)

    As a father and friend of the family I can only offer my deepest, deepest sorrow. Now is not the time to ask how it happened, just why THIS young man is no longer going to charm his mom, bs with his dad, visit his sisters, and play with his son. Now is the time to cry . . . . .

  • GB April 14, 2011 (4:43 pm)

    My thought and prayers to Andrews family and friends. I was the first on the scene as I happened to be out front on the phone. I was at his side and on the phone with 911 within 1 minute of the accident and was immediately joined by 2 neighbors (one an ex state patrol and the other an active paramedic)I assure you we all did everything we could to help and comfort Andrew until the ambulance arrived (within 6-7 minutes of my call). This has left me shaken for sure. This is the 8th incident that I have personally responded to at this exact spot since I bought my house 6 years ago . How many people need to be hurt or killed before they pay attention.

    TO:LindaB the screaming lady did in fact run up to scene screaming and yelling but was quickly rushed away by a male that she was with and to the best of my knowledge they left the scene.

    TO: whomever that couple was I believe you may have information that the investigators and family may need. Please speak up if that is the case as many lives were altered by this incident.

    GB

  • C April 14, 2011 (5:30 pm)

    I’m sorry to everyone who lost their daddy, their son, their brother, their friend. May God be with you and comfort you in your time of need. There really are no words. You all have been in my prayers and will continue to be.

  • Seffernick family April 14, 2011 (5:39 pm)

    Thank you everyone for your thoughts & prayers – and especially to those that were with Andrew at the scene. Andrew was an incredibly creative spirit, passionate artist, and loving being. We will miss our son, little brother, father, uncle, friend. A plan for a memorial skateboard ride for Andrew along Alki is in the works. We will post more info later.

    Thank you again for the amazing support.

    The Seffernick Family

  • Citizen Sane April 14, 2011 (6:07 pm)

    This is incredibly sad; my deepest condolences to the family of this unfortunate young man. Enough is enough; something has to be done to address the hazards on 35th SW. I’m not referring to the circumstances of this collision, but in general speeding and aggressive driving is a real problem here. If everyone would simply observe the speed limit on this street (is it 30 or 35mph? – I avoid it so much I’m not sure!), the number of crashes would probably be greatly reduced. Given the volume of traffic that uses it, I would need to have the ‘road diet’ concept explained on how it would work here. Personally, I favor the installation of speed radar cameras. If motorists know that getting a ticket for speeding on 35th was a certainty, I think they’d be a bit more careful.

  • Pam April 14, 2011 (6:18 pm)

    Our condolences to your family, so very sorry for what you are going through.

  • Billy April 14, 2011 (7:03 pm)

    I grew up on 36th Ave SW between Juneau and Raymond. One of our neighbors was hit and killed trying to cross 35th at Raymond. Gone in an instant. The light at Findlay, I’m sure was installed as a school crossing light for the old Fairmont Park Elementary School. 35th and Juneau MUST have a Traffic light installed with green turn arrows for east and west Juneau. I am all for a road diet to slow down the freeway speeds. West Seattle SLOW DOWN ! We will all be better for it. I didn’t know Andrew, but I mourn with his Family and friends. I also mourn for my old neighbor Mrs Adams she just couldn’t get across 35th in time.

  • friends April 14, 2011 (7:19 pm)

    My heart goes out to all of Andrew’s friends and family. He was such a good person and his family is truly the most loving family I have ever known. I plan on carrying him around in my heart for forever and I know that there are many others who will do the same.

  • Mn April 14, 2011 (8:27 pm)

    Please put more speed bumps, lights and crosswalks on 35 th
    It’s not a freeway !!!!!!
    I am always scared coming out of Juneau and other streets onto 35 th
    It must change
    !!!!

  • Andrew G April 14, 2011 (9:24 pm)

    Condolences to the Seffernick family. Andrew was my best bud in 9th grade. He was so random, and had the best personality. Was supposed to catch up with him sometime soon to grab a beer. I’d love to go on that skateboard tribute. Gonna miss you Andrew

  • (required) April 14, 2011 (9:31 pm)

    Once again: evidence that it is WAY past the time to eliminate the four lane freeway that 35th is and make it just one lane each way with a center turn lane. (Or better: turn it into a boulevard with a planter strip down the middle.) I hope the motorcyclist’s family sues the city for the design flaw that 35th is. We know no one drives 35mph or less. EVERYONE exceeds the limit. The city knows this! We ALL know this! (That’s why there’s already 80+ comments!) Also, we know that every few months or more frequently, a pedestrian, a cyclist, a motorcyclist, or a car is hit or killed from the current design. (Seriously: people stop to turn left across two lanes while traffic literally races inches all around them — that is how it is designed and that is why people continue to get killed!) That design needs to change. Cars drive fast. That is not to say that speeders and inattentive drivers are not at fault to some extent, but the city clearly shares blame for keeping this dangerous situation in place. Worse, the city knew Fauntleroy had the same dangers, and it changed Fauntleroy — but 35th — which is worse — it has not changed at all. Time to sue the city and make Seattle pay, I say! This motorcyclist’s blood is on the city’s hands! How many more lives do we need to see lost? There is no excuse — if Fauntleroy can be turned from four lanes to two, so can 35th, and so can Roxbury, for that matter. So sorry to hear of this family’s loss.

  • 35this35mph April 14, 2011 (10:07 pm)

    Godspeed Andrew.

    Comprehensive treatment of I35 is needed without question. A “Road Diet” sounds just about right.

  • Testing HTML April 14, 2011 (11:36 pm)

    Notice that ADRT prefers Admiral but they don’t show up on 35th?

  • Ayun Ji April 15, 2011 (12:19 am)

    Wanted to report that I had an accident right at the same spot 2 weeks ago in same exact situation. I am still at home recovering from it. I am so sad for this guy and his family and for the other woman involved. I pray that they find peace in their hearts. That spot needs a signal light or attention from City to assess a way to slow down traffic.

  • kim April 15, 2011 (12:33 am)

    Andrew was always a person you wanted around you. Always laughing, joking around, smiling, and it was always contagious. Andrew was not one to conform to rules, he proved that an exception could be accepted. He had a goofy soul, and I will always remember him that way. Prayers for his family and those that loved him. It’s so sad that the world has lost such a wonderful heart….

  • cuupcakke April 15, 2011 (2:19 am)

    My condolences go out to the Seffernick family. I didn’t know Andrew but I can’t imagine losing a child or a sibling or a close friend. My prayers go out to you all.

    I have never been a fan of motorcycles and this is exactly why. They are so hard to see when driving and cars these days have too many blind spots and these accidents happen so frequently. I don’t think in this accident someone can be blamed. I think it was just merely an accident. I mean it was rainy and windy and dark. These things happen.

    I did witness the teenager get hit by a car crossing at the corner of 35th and Juneau 2 years ago. i do agree that a stop light should be put in that spot, but I do not think a stop light would have had anything to do with preventing this accident.

    Rest In Peace Andrew.

  • westseattleperson April 15, 2011 (6:55 am)

    I beg to differ (required), I don’t drive over 35 on 35th. There is no need to and it’s people like you that make it a dangerous road. As you can see, bad things can happen when you don’t slow down, so please do.

    Condolences to the family of the motorcycle driver. So sad.

  • Mom April 15, 2011 (7:05 am)

    27 years ago, another young man was violently killed in Seattle, He was our good friend Dave Clements whom we named our next baby for; Andrew Clements,, Sometimes the good really do die young. Thank you all for your comments.

  • Jasperblu April 15, 2011 (7:50 am)

    As a WS resident who lives just west of the I-35 corridor I am appalled DAILY by the rate of speed cars and motorcycles travel at. And not just at this particular section of 35th. It’s bad from 106th all the way to Avalon. As a mom who more often than not has my 4 & 1/2 in the car with me, I’m equally appalled by how many people honk, gesture angrily, and attempt to pass me

  • Jasperblu April 15, 2011 (7:58 am)

    Oops… Hit publish too soon.
    .
    Anyway, my last point was that I’m often harangued by other drivers along 35th for driving AT the speed limit. I refuse to speed because my child is more important to me than getting somewhere fast. Too many drivers act as if I am the problem and try to run me off the road for driving safely.
    .
    The worst offenders? Other MOMS in mini-vans and SUV’s like mine, with kids in their cars, just like me. Yapping on their phones (NOT like me). Call me granny all you want. I’m going to get where I’m going in one piece, and my kid deserves a mom who drives safely. What the heck West Seattle? Slow down!
    .
    As for Andrew’s family and friends… My heart goes out to them. And my prayers. What a senseless and needless tragedy.
    .
    TR, what can we really do to get the City of Seattle to pay attention to the entirety of 35th Ave. SW being a speed problem? Writing letters is all very well, but in my experience it usually isn’t enough. $$$ speaks. As does the presence of LOTS of neighbors demanding something be done loudly by protests, but more importantly with their votes.
    .
    Regardless, something must be done about speeding on 35th. And while I’m at it, Beach Drive is a ridiculous mess of speeding idiots too. Speed bumps haven’t helped. Maybe traffic signals would?

    • WSB April 15, 2011 (9:13 am)

      I’ve just gotten a short reply from the West Seattleite who is neighborhood traffic liaison for the city and plan to write a followup a bit later, about to publish a few quick unrelated things and then run out to an interview. I also have checked with CM Tom Rasmussen’s staff – I hope someone has requested a meeting or visit, as that’s how these things tend to work – that’s why (in the links I shared earlier in comments) CM Licata came out a few years back – more later – TR

  • Erik April 15, 2011 (10:33 am)

    how sad, the young man that died went to High school (Chief Sealth) AND Church (Tibbets United Methodist) with me when we were kids…. A sad day for sure

  • Leanne April 15, 2011 (11:03 am)

    So sorry to read this. So happy I got the see Andrew & photos of his son when he came with Neal to Outdoorsforall for our last day. That hugs means so much right now. Miss you Andrew!

  • keenan mcClanahan April 15, 2011 (11:46 am)

    this is a sad way to see my best friend go andrew was like a brother to me he tought me how to do many things,i will never forget the last words he said to me last summer at a job.(love ya lilttle budy be good stay out of trouble)
    he was a great person who was a role modle on many people.
    when i was three, he tought me how to longboard then that follwing winter to snowboard.these are things that i have taken from the best and passed on to many people.
    andrew touched our whole famileys life and we will all miss him greatly.
    r.i.p andrew

  • Aurelio Parra April 15, 2011 (12:19 pm)

    My sincere condolences to the Seffernicks,
    I had the pleasure to know Andrew and I will remember him as the happy kid that one day shared some Coca cola with me in the park down the street where his parents live as you all can see Andrew touched many people’s lives .
    you will be remember forever Andrew
    Aurelio Parra.

  • gary April 15, 2011 (12:31 pm)

    Is there interview information from the other driver available yet?

  • D Jessica April 15, 2011 (1:23 pm)

    I had the gift of growing up alongside the treasured, unconditionally loving, exceptional Seffernick family. Andrew, having three older sisters, is an honorary younger brother to an enormous community of west seattle natives who have watched him grow up. An old soul from the beginning, Andrew was filled with the most truly unique creative spirit, existing in a realm of incredible possibility; one he was able to see clearly in a way so few can.
    Thank you, Andrew, for what you shared with everyone you met in the years you spent here. Thank you for following your loving heart to create your beautiful son when you did, leaving him here with us for you to shine through every day. You will continue to live in all of us who knew you.
    I break with grief and despair for my Seffernick family. Know that you are surrounded by
    So
    Much
    Love.

    Andrew has given his life, but perhaps he will save countless others by motivating us in this tragedy to do what is necessary to make 35th the 35mph residential arterial it should be. I live on Fauntleroy near Findlay, and as a result of the road diet, driver, cyclist & pedestrian lives are way safer. Road diet = center turn lane, enabling the ability to make a left turn without risking certain doom. One lane each way, moving more steadily without frequent left-turning cars stopped ahead. Pedestrians are more visible. Bikes have space for travel. Drivers go 30-35mph instead of 50. It’s quieter, and it’s nice to live in a neighborhood instead of on the side of a 4 lane highway.
    When I do my current sparing travel on 35th, I enter/exit at Juneau and it is always terrifying. I often use my hazard lights when stopped waiting to turn left because of the 50% chance of getting rear-ended otherwise.

    It is time to destruct I-35 and create Andrew Seffernick Memorial Drive.

  • shelley April 15, 2011 (2:00 pm)

    I just found out about this morning and am saddened and shocked. I have known Andrew and his family for years and have felt a part of their family. My heart and thoughts and prayers go out to them during this difficult time. Andrew was a beautiful person with a amazing heart who impacted every person he met. He will be missed by many because he truly made a difference in this world and added many blessings to my life.

  • rose April 15, 2011 (2:54 pm)

    I cant belive this! I was andrews neighbor for 15 years. I always use to sit at my house watching him making something. As we got older he helped me fix my car when i needed it. He was always a good person! I will miss seeing him around the old block. All my love and peryers go to his 3 sisters, mom and dad and to his son!

  • Robin April 15, 2011 (3:33 pm)

    Andrew you will be missed by many, we will always remember you – We will miss you !

  • charlotte,teresa April 15, 2011 (4:14 pm)

    ANDREW YOU WILL BE MISS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS :( WE LOST A GOOD FRIEND

  • westseattledood April 15, 2011 (4:30 pm)

    The families and friends of all involved with this tragic loss are in my thoughts as well.

    Perhaps I missed it, but I wonder if folks can appeal directly to the Aggressive Drivers’ Response Team through emails and phone calls. Not to say that this was the issue here, but maybe it would be another approach to begin some conversations. I am not familiar with
    how the ADRT is structured or how decisions are made about which streets have emphasis patrols assigned, because that information was not obvious on their website. But I *do* wonder how the decisions are made. I have seen ADRT cars on Roxbury, Highland Park Way, Admiral, Henderson and near the bridge; but I’ve never personally seen them on 35th, which strikes me as a little odd.

  • Magpie April 15, 2011 (4:40 pm)

    One thing we seem to all agree on is that 35th is a bad street whether you are a driver, motorcyclist, biker or pedestrian. There have been too many deaths and serious injuries on it and we need to take it to the city council, DOT or whatever and have them make it safer for all.

  • Daisy Menjivar April 15, 2011 (4:41 pm)

    I found out this morning about it and my first flashback was seeing Andrew as sweet blond blue eyed 8yr old kid who used to play with my girls and his sister on summertime…those were happy memories, happy times.. I still have the pictures..we will always remember you Andrew..My prayers and condolences are for his mom who is a good friend of mine and the Seffernick family.. :(

  • MB April 15, 2011 (6:33 pm)

    This felt appropriate…

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c23jsrsOExM

  • LH April 16, 2011 (7:48 pm)

    This man was my son’s uncle. My condolences to everyone that this has affected…<3

  • Mike Hammock April 16, 2011 (11:58 pm)

    Andrew,
    you left us way to soon. you are loved deeply as was seen by the tears shed by your family and friends today.
    Know that you will not be forgotten and your fantastic little boy is going to be surrounded by a very large loving family.
    Aunt Julie and Uncle Mike

  • Esther April 17, 2011 (12:07 am)

    Very sad story… I agree with others that this is a dangerous corner. I live east of 35th, and heading southbound it can be really hard see when I want to turn left (east) onto Juneau, especially when there are large vehicles (SUVs, vans) in the northbound lane waiting to turn (west) onto Juneau. They completely obstruct the view of oncoming traffic to the point where I don’t feel safe crossing the lanes, and I don’t feel safe sitting in my southbound left lane waiting for a clear view because of the speeders. Then I feel the need to continue one block further to Raymond and turn left from the left-turn lane there. I feel so sad for the loss of this young man’s life. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. RIP, Andrew.

  • Anita April 17, 2011 (8:58 am)

    I have lived on 34th and Findlay for 25 years and have heard of many deaths and accidents on 35th and Juneau. I called the city and asked why they were not going to put a light there years ago. I told them to save money they should take the one off of 35th and Findlay and put it at Juneau. We have a lot of speeding traffic down our one way road between Findlay and Juneau because to be safe they want to use that light at Findlay. It is dangerous there too because people run the red light all the time. You always look both ways before you proceed when the light turns green. My husband and I have witnessed many people running that light and one day a pedestrian was almost hit!!! They need to do what they did on Fauntleroy to 35th and put a light in at Juneau and take the one down at Findlay. That would decrease the speeding traffic through our neighborhood and fix the problem at Juneau. I have also called about the trees on the east side of 35th and Juneau. They really block your view when the leaves come on. Super hazard but nothing ever done about it.

  • Megan April 18, 2011 (12:45 am)

    Haven’t seen you sense your sisters wedding, it’s hard to think that you are gone, your family might as well be blood related to mine. You were a cousin to me, always thought of you that way. You were too young. RIP Andrew <3 maybe this is an awakening to always keep in touch with people. Don't think dad's told Jer yet…it will be hard.

  • JTK April 18, 2011 (3:31 pm)

    You can’t put a Traffic light on every corner. If there was a light there who is to say that someone wouldn’t have run the light?… the whole thing is horrible… condolences to the motorcycle driver, and god speed to the driver of the car… they have to feel awful… this is so sad….

  • Kim April 18, 2011 (5:47 pm)

    Andrew, we love you and will miss you more than words could describe. I’m always going to cherish the fun times we had together. I know your up there keeping an eye out on your friends and family. Much love Andrew… no one will ever be able to fill the void you’ve left in our lives.

  • Tammy S April 19, 2011 (6:51 pm)

    To the Seffernicks,
    I am so very sadden to hear of the loss for such a wonderful young man. Chad has taken this very hard as Andrew was not only a friend but thought of as another big brother like his brother Neal. He was very excited when Andrew was able to go up to Outdoors for all with them. We will miss him so very much. Andrew spent alot of time at our house with Neal and we considered him a son. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do. Your whole family is in our thoughts.
    Take care and god speed to you all.
    Tammy, Chris, Chad, and Cherise

  • WS Steve April 20, 2011 (11:31 am)

    I taught Andrew’s sisters in Sunday School when they were kids. I remember him as an energetic little boy. This is is a sad, sad day and my heart goes out to the whole family.

  • Patrick April 23, 2011 (4:05 am)

    Just following up on accident. Sorry about his death. I was 2 blocks behind the accident going Northbound with the motorcylcist. He blew past me doing about 60mph, no lights on & the pavement was dry. Accident happened just before the downpour. I never saw the motorcylcist when I enter 35th at Othello until he past me just before Morgan St. He beat the yellow. I didn’t. Arrived less then a minute after impact. Excellent neighborhood response, terrific people helping out at the scene. I know motorcylces can be invisble to other motorist, but the lady turning left had no chance. Excessive speed, no lights, dark bike, helmet & clothes. Dark overcast night just before a downpour on a dark section of street. I think this time it was the cylcist’s fault and I hope all parties can forgive everybody & especially themselves.

  • hmmm April 23, 2011 (11:45 am)

    I hope that all ‘witnesses’ made their statements at the scene because this much after the fact it just becomes hearsay and speculation. The only way to tell that someone was going 60 is either by radar or by going 60 yourself. The investigation will be able to tell if the light was on or not and I can’t imagine someone driving 60 miles an hour in the dark without their lights on but that’s my speculation and therefore not relevant to what did or didn’t happen.

  • Chad Stewart April 23, 2011 (4:09 pm)

    Andrew was like a mentor/brother/father to me. he meant a lot to me. I remember the time when me and him built a truck out of wood for his son to ride in. it was really cool. He built so much art out of anything. Andrew was a fantastic artist. Its really hard to believe that he was going 60MPH, he said to me personally its sketchy going past 35. i doubt he was speeding at such a high rate. R.I.P Andrew I will always remember you bro. You meant a lot to me.

  • Chris May 5, 2011 (1:36 pm)

    Motorcycles sold in the United States do not even have switches to turn off the headlights and have not for about 30 years. I question the vailidity of some of the “witness” statements here.

  • Siren May 15, 2011 (6:02 pm)

    Today was a beautiful tribute to Andrew and the turnout showed just how loved and admired he was. Thank you to all who came. Seeing his art and creations enjoyed and admired by so many was a wonderful experience! He will be missed, but the joy in his son, and his art left for all of us will forever be loved and remembered.

Sorry, comment time is over.