A Life Lost in Seconds: Tragedy on Sprague Avenue
Spokane Valley, WA – A peaceful Thursday night turned into a scene of heartbreak when a motorcyclist was killed in a suspected DUI crash at the intersection of Sprague Avenue and Custer Road on August 28, 2025, around 9:40 p.m. According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, the devastating incident occurred when Darla Stoffel, 61, attempted to make a left-hand turn while driving eastbound on Sprague Avenue. In doing so, she collided with a motorcyclist traveling westbound.
The man on the motorcycle, whose identity has not yet been released, suffered catastrophic injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. What was meant to be a routine evening commute ended in unimaginable loss. Meanwhile, Stoffel sustained only minor injuries and was treated at the scene before being taken into custody.
For those who saw the aftermath or received that late-night call, the loss of life was sudden, senseless, and impossible to grasp. The community is left grieving a man whose life ended too soon due to a decision that never should have been made.
DUI Suspected: Substance Use Allegedly Played a Role
What makes this tragedy even more painful is the suspected involvement of impaired driving. Upon investigating the scene, authorities discovered cannabis in Stoffel’s vehicle and suspected she was under the influence at the time of the crash. She was arrested and booked into Spokane County Jail on vehicular homicide charges.
This is not just a tragic accident—it is an alleged crime, and one that has shattered a family and stunned a community. The choice to get behind the wheel while impaired has taken a life and forever altered countless others.
The crash is still under investigation, and officials continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the events leading up to the collision. In the meantime, a life full of potential is gone, and justice must now take its course.
Mourning a Rider Taken Too Soon
Though the name of the motorcyclist has not yet been publicly shared, the loss is deeply felt. He was someone’s son, friend, perhaps a father or husband—a person with dreams, with loved ones waiting at home, who will now only be remembered in photos and stories.
In moments like these, words fail to capture the weight of grief. The sound of a motorcycle that once roared with freedom and life is now silenced. Tributes have already begun to appear on social media, from fellow riders, family members, and strangers alike, all united in sorrow and outrage.
A memorial ride or candlelight vigil is expected to be announced in the coming days, where the community can come together to honor his memory and raise awareness about the devastating consequences of impaired driving.
