Bee May be to Blame for Tragic Death in Vancouver, Washington

The driver reported to investigators that a bee flew into the vehicle and while attempting to get the bee out, he veered into the bicycle lane.

Salem-News.com

(VANCOUVER, Wa.) - Vancouver Police were called to the 200 block of SE 136th Avenue for a vehicle versus bicycle collision Friday evening at 7:30 PM.

As it turns out, the driver of the car and the bicycle rider were both local area high school seniors, as was the 18-year old passenger in the car.

Police say the vehicle, driven by a 17-year old male, was traveling southbound on SE 136th Avenue when it veered into the bicycle lane and struck a 17-year old bicyclist who was riding in the southbound bicycle lane.

The bicyclist later died.

The Vancouver Police Department Traffic Unit is handling the investigation and at this point it does not appear that speed, alcohol or drugs were a factor in the collision.

The driver reported to investigators that a bee flew into the vehicle and while attempting to get the bee out, he veered into the bicycle lane.

Investigators did find a bee in the back seat of the vehicle. No citations have been issued at this time and the driver was released to his parents. Traffic officers are estimating the investigation to take several weeks for completion.

No further information is available at this time and the names of the driver and the victim will not be released until Monday.