Police Department

SPD Seeking Assistance in Locating Vehicle of Interest

Ofc. Daniel Strassenberg, PIO

Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 9:45 a.m.

***Update***

The driver of the vehicle involved in the fatal hit/run incident that took place on June 20th, turned himself into law enforcement early this morning. 63-year-old James G. Bernhardt contacted officers at the Public Safety Building, admitting his involvement in the events that resulted in the death of an adult male. Bernhardt spoke with Major Crimes Detectives before being taken into custody. He was then booked into the Spokane County Jail for Vehicle Hit/Run involving a Fatality.

Original Release:

The Spokane Police Department is seeking help from community members in locating a vehicle of interest related to a fatal auto/pedestrian collision that took place on June 20^th of this year. At approximately 4:15 am, 911 was advised of the collision in the area of 9200 North Newport Highway. The caller advised 911 that a subject was down in the roadway and that the vehicle involved fled the area southbound. The pedestrian struck by the vehicle died at the scene.

Investigators are attempting to locate the vehicle pictured below. The suspect vehicle is described as a 2001-2007 Toyota Highlander, likely bronze in color.

If you have any information about the incident or the above-mentioned vehicle, please contact Crime Check at 509 456-2233.

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