A tragic weather-related incident occurred on December 18, 2024, at around 6:25 a. m. , resulting in a fatal collision on Highway 2 when a tree fell onto the roadway, striking an eastbound truck. Emergency responders from the Spokane Police Department (SPD) and Washington State Patrol discovered that both occupants of the truck had died on impact. Initial reports suggest that heavy winds in the area caused the tree to dislodge and fall across the highway, leading to this unfortunate accident.

The SPD Major Crimes Unit is conducting an investigation into the incident. During the investigation, the eastbound lane of Highway 2 was temporarily closed to ensure safety and gather evidence. The names of the deceased will be released by the Spokane County Medical Examiner's Office later, respecting the privacy of the families involved. This incident serves as a reminder of the hazards posed by severe weather conditions and the importance of road safety. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions during inclement weather.