Lieutenant Scott Grunhurd and Sergeant Chad Cristelli were travelling with a group on a motorcycle trip when their motorcycles collided. Both men were thrown from their bikes and both sustained injuries requiring that they be transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland Washington. Lieutenant Grunhurd was treated and has been released from the hospital. Sergeant Cristelli sustained fractured ribs and a punctured lung. He will remain at the hospital for a few more days.
The group was travelling along State Route 260 at milepost 28, which is about 3 miles east of the city limits of Kahlotus. This remote roadway system is about 50 miles northeast of the Tri-Cities.
According to the media release notes from the WSP Trooper that investigated the crash the two motorcycles collided as one of the bikes moved from the left to the right side of his lane. There is no indication of excessive speed, nor drug or alcohol involvement. Both men were wearing helmets. The collision occurred at about 4:20 p.m. on July 5th.
Police Chief Cliff Cook states: “The families of the injured officers are with them, as are several members of our staff. Our immediate concern is the welfare of our officers. The support that our officers and agency have received from the law enforcement community in the Tri-Cities area has been exceptional and we are truly thankful for all of positive messages of support that we are receiving”.
