A motorcycle accident involving a law enforcement officer has become the locus of a broader conversation on traffic safety and firearm regulations. The incident, which transpired on Monday, witnessed a 19-year-old motorcyclist rear-ending a sergeant's vehicle in the 13900 block of Pacific Avenue, as described by the Pierce County Sheriff's Department Blog. The collision led to an unexpected discovery: the young rider was found to be in possession of a gun without a requisite permit.
The sergeant, who was driving an unmarked police car, halted to aid the motorcyclist only to find, next to him, a pistol within a holster. Upon inquiry, the rider admitted the firearm was his but lacked a legal permit to carry it. A witness reported the rider to have been splitting lanes and speeding before the crash occurred.
The Pierce County Sheriff's Department reminded the community to follow important laws for safety. They emphasized that you need a license and motorcycle endorsement, must be 21 to carry a handgun in public (unless with an adult or at a range), need a concealed carry permit for concealed carry, and that lane splitting on motorcycles is illegal in Washington State, making it more dangerous.
The sergeant involved in the incident was not reported to have sustained any injuries, and the investigation into the motorcycle rider's actions continues.
