Tow truck driver accused of DUI after arriving on scene of crash involving DUI in downtown Spokane

A woman accused of driving under the influence through downtown Spokane while speeding and running multiple red lights before crashing into another car was arrested Sunday evening.

The tow truck driver called to the scene didn’t fare any better. He was arrested on the same charge after an officer smelled marijuana coming from within the tow truck.

A Jeep Cherokee ran the stop light at First Avenue and Washington Street just before 8 p.m. and then crashed into other cars, according to a Spokane Police Department news release.

Witnesses told police that the SUV ran numerous red lights along First Avenue while speeding.

The driver of the Jeep was Jennifer Petrick, 50. Police determined Petrick was showing signs of impairment and she was arrested on suspicion of a DUI and taken to a hospital to treat injuries from the crash.

The occupants of the other vehicle had minor injuries that were treated at a local hospital, police said.

As the scene began to clear, a tow truck arrived to move one of the cars involved in the crash, police said. When an officer approached the tow truck, he smelled marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. As the officers were talking with the driver, Kenen Pierce, 53, the truck had a mechanical issue and rolled into a patrol car.

The fender bender caused minor damage to both vehicles, police said.

A drug recognition expert was called to the scene and evaluated Pierce, who was determined to show several signs of impairment.

Pierce was arrested for driving under the influence.

In a statement, DUI Enforcement Team Officer Michael Huffman reminded the public to drink and use marijuana responsibly.