Collision with Elk Causes Serious Damage, Fire Near Cle Elum

Three people are uninjured after the pickup truck they were in struck an elk on I-90 about 2 miles from Cle Elum.

State Patrol Trooper John Bryant said the pickup was traveling westbound when it struck the elk head-on, causing heavy damage to the front end and starting a fire.

"Be cautious. Always keep an eye out for the little white eyes on the side of the road that are reflecting off of your headlights." Bryant said, "Realize that elk really will cause a lot of damage as compared to a deer. Those of that know elk know they're big, muscular, stout creatures."

The pickup was a total loss. The elk died at the scene, but was taken away and used through the state's salvage laws.