A dramatic scene unfolded in Tigard, Oregon, early Friday morning when a pickup truck launched off a dirt mound, flew approximately 100 feet through the air, and crashed into a home. The incident, which occurred around 3 a.m. On Southwest Larkwood Place, left a significant portion of the house damaged but, remarkably, resulted in only minor injuries to those involved. The driver, identified as 33-year-traditional Jacob Hankins, has been arrested and faces charges related to the reckless incident.
The crash has quickly gained attention, with video footage circulating widely online showing the truck airborne before impact. Witnesses reported the vehicle was speeding and driving recklessly on Southwest Schools Ferry Road prior to leaving the roadway and becoming airborne. The incident raises questions about road safety and the potential consequences of reckless driving, prompting a police investigation and community concern.
Truck Airborne for 100 Feet Before Impact
According to the Tigard Police Department, Hankins was driving westbound on Southwest Schools Ferry Road when his pickup truck struck a dirt mound. This launched the vehicle into the air, allowing it to clear a 3-foot retaining wall before crashing into the first-floor bathroom of a residence. The impact caused extensive damage to the home, as described by homeowner David Brudnok, who stated, “I didn’t expect a flying truck… I just heard this, BOOM! And the house shakes… I gain down the stairs, and I realize the whole front of my house is completely just gone.”
Fortunately, Brudnok, his wife, and their three young children were upstairs at the time of the crash and were unharmed. Firefighters were able to extract both Hankins and his passenger from the wreckage, and both were transported to a hospital with minor injuries, according to police reports. The investigation is ongoing to determine the factors contributing to this dangerous incident.
Reckless Driving Suspected in Tigard Crash
Police have arrested Jacob Hankins on suspicion of reckless driving and recklessly endangering others. Witnesses’ accounts of speeding and reckless driving prior to the crash support these charges. The incident highlights the dangers of impaired or aggressive driving and the potential for devastating consequences. The Oregonian/OregonLive reported that Hankins was unconscious when officers arrived at the scene.
Video footage shared with KGW News and widely circulated online provides a clear visual of the truck’s trajectory. The video shows the pickup truck becoming airborne after hitting the dirt mound, soaring through the air for an estimated 100 feet before impacting the home. This visual evidence corroborates the police report and witness statements.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The crash has understandably shaken the Tigard community. The extent of the damage to the Brudnok family’s home is significant, and they are currently assessing their options for repair and recovery. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present on roadways and the importance of responsible driving habits. MotorBiscuit reported that the family of five living inside the home escaped unharmed.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including any potential contributing factors such as speed, impairment, or mechanical failure. Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses. The Tigard Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the events leading up to this extraordinary crash and ensuring the safety of the Tigard community. The incident underscores the critical necessitate for drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
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