Justin LaBrie Killed in Spokane Hit-and-Run Accident

Q: What is the status of the Spokane hit-and-run investigation?

The death of a father of two has deeply affected the local community, prompting vigils and calls for justice. In cases where a driver fails to remain at the collision site, the emotional toll on the surviving family is compounded by the search for accountability. "Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide families during this difficult time, protecting their rights while ensuring that drivers who don't obey traffic laws are held accountable," noted Stefano Formica, who serves as a national legal analyst for Accident News and is of counsel at Bond Legal.

Q: How do hit-and-run death impact the community?

Hit-and-run investigations rely heavily on physical evidence left at the scene, surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and witness statements. When a suspect remains at large, law enforcement agencies frequently turn to the public for assistance in identifying the fleeing vehicle.

Justin LaBrie hit-and-run pedestrian accident on Division Street, Spokane, Washington

The 36-year-old father of two died a week after being struck on Division Street

Justin LaBrie, 36, of Spokane, was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Division Street near Everett Avenue in Spokane, Washington, on April 27, according to police.‌‍‍‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‍‍‌‌‍‌‍‌‍‍‍‌‍‌‌‌‌‍‍‌‌‍

Paramedics rushed the critically injured man to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, where he remained hospitalized for a week before succumbing to blunt-force trauma. The driver who struck him fled the scene before first responders arrived.

Detectives are investigating the collision as a felony fatal hit-and-run and are actively searching for the suspect. Authorities have asked anyone with surveillance video or information to contact the department's tip line. No vehicle description has been released.

Family members organized a candlelight vigil at Franklin Park to honor the father of two. A community fundraiser has also been established to assist with funeral and crematory expenses.

The sudden loss of a loved one in a hit-and-run leaves families grappling with deep grief and unanswered questions. While the criminal justice system works to identify the driver who fled the scene on Division Street, victims' families often face significant emotional and financial burdens.

Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News, said, "Pedestrians face serious dangers during vehicle crashes because human bodies have little protection against speeding traffic. An attorney often helps preserve evidence, secure surveillance footage, review roadway conditions and address insurance problems affecting families after severe or fatal pedestrian collisions occur."

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that one in four pedestrians and nearly as many cyclists killed in crashes last year were victims of hit‑and‑run drivers.

What is the status of the Spokane hit-and-run investigation?

"Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide families during this difficult time, protecting their rights while ensuring that drivers who don't obey traffic laws are held accountable," noted Stefano Formica, who serves as a national legal analyst for Accident News and is of counsel at Bond Legal.

How do hit-and-run death impact the community?

Washington wrongful death statute

Under RCW § 4.20.010, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Washington applies pure comparative fault. The statute of limitations is 3 years.

Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and the estate's losses.