Spokanite dies in cycle crash

A Spokane resident, Thomas E. McCracken, 64, died at the scene of a motorcycle accident on the Rock Lake Road just south of the Dewey Road intersection late Sunday morning. Also, two Spokane Valley residents, Gary A. Morris, 54, and April M. Morris, 48, were injured when their motorcycle spilled at the same location. They were transported by ambulance to Sacred Heart Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

According to Sheriff’s Sgt. Rick McNannay, deputies responded to a report that two motorcycles had crashed off Rock Lake Road south of the Dewey Road intersection. When deputies arrived at the scene they observed two cruiser-type motorcycles approximately 15 feet off the side of the road. The motorcycles were about 20 feet apart.

McNannay’s report said subsequent investigation determined the two motorcycles were among a group of five who were southbound. All of the riders on the tour were experienced and wearing helmets and protective clothing. The two motorcycles that crashed were traveling with substantial distance between them and did not come in contact in the accidents.

The report said each of the motorcycles drifted too far toward the shoulder of the road while negotiating a curve to the left. The cycles went out of control on gravel along the side of the paved roadway.

The site is about seven miles north of the boat launch site at the south end of Rock Lake.

Gary Morris was operating a 2011 Harley Davison FXX10 with April Morris as a passenger. McCracken was on a 2003 Harley Davidson FLTRI. He was thrown from the cycle.

McNannay noted loose gravel, residue from the winter season, adds a hazard to county roadways, especially for motorcycles and bicycles. Riders are urged to use caution.