Detectives from the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad (TCIS) are investigating a collision that occurred early this morning in the 3800 Block of Rainier Avenue South.
At about 1:20 this morning, a Nissan Altima, driven by a 17-year-old female, was travelling northbound in the 3800 Block of Rainier Avenue South. The driver of the Nissan lost control of the car and drove off the roadway. The Altima severed a telephone pole and a fire hydrant before colliding with a large tree on the east side of the street.
The driver, as well as a 17-year-old female passenger, were injured in the collision. There were no other occupants in the car. Both were taken to Harborview Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. Fortunately, the injuries are not considered to be life-threatening.
According to detectives, it appears that the driver may have been racing another car at the time of the collision. Speed and alcohol may have also contributed to the collision. Detectives impounded the vehicle and the driver was being evaluated at the hospital for possible impairment. This remains an active and on-going TCIS investigation.