Followup: Longfellow footbridge closed TFN post-crash

As promised, we went back to check on the footbridge over Longfellow Creek at SW Yancy in North Delridge (map), damaged when a driver went through the dead end, onto the bridge, through its railing, and into the creek early this morning (WSB coverage here). The “closed” sign was posted by Seattle Parks, which has responsibility for the area; we talked with regional manager Carol Baker, who tells us that Parks carpenters went out for a look at it earlier today but won’t be able to thoroughly assess the damage and plan for repairs until next week.

ADDED MONDAY: We finally have police confirmation of an arrest in connection with this – a 40-year-old man suspected of DUI. (The footbridge is still closed off – we’ll be checking on Tuesday to see if there’s a repair plan yet.)

7 Replies to "Followup: Longfellow footbridge closed TFN post-crash"

  • Clarence December 19, 2014 (4:08 pm)

    I am a regular user of this bridge. Will the criminal be forced to pay to rebuild?

  • ltfd December 19, 2014 (5:08 pm)

    “Criminal”?

  • Mj December 19, 2014 (5:17 pm)

    Any word on the circumstances surrounding the crash?

  • JanS December 19, 2014 (7:20 pm)

    what part of “accident” is “criminal”?

    • WSB December 19, 2014 (7:44 pm)

      Potentially criminal, as police were investigating for DUI. However, I have no confirmation of whether an arrest was made and/or suspect cited.

  • Alan December 19, 2014 (10:25 pm)

    Anyone familiar with this location, which is a short narrow street with a house at the end and dead-end signs will wonder how a diligent driver could accidentally go all the way through the bridge and into the creek. So, short of someone having a heart attack or stroke, assuming criminal reckless endangerment is not unreasonable.

  • Kayo December 20, 2014 (7:40 am)

    It’s hard to imagine how this happened without it being someone under the influence, especially given the timing. I also use this trail almost daily and am bummed the bridge is closed. Hopefully, the repairs aren’t too significant and it can reopen soon.

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