Spokane, Washington — A deadly early morning crash in Spokane has led to serious criminal charges against a 22-year-old man accused of driving drunk, using THC, and later attempting to blame his deceased friend for the fatal wreck.
Deadly BMW Crash Leaves One Dead
Authorities say the violent collision happened around 7:30 a.m. on May 8 near W. Airport Drive and S. Spotted Road in Spokane.
According to investigators, Salom Batlok was behind the wheel of a BMW when the vehicle slammed into a utility pole with devastating force. The crash killed 21-year-old Dewayne Aiseia and left three other people inside the car with severe injuries.
Police said the impact caused catastrophic damage, with passengers suffering broken teeth, severe leg injuries, and other serious trauma.
Batlok now faces one count of vehicular homicide and two counts of vehicular assault in connection with the deadly crash.
Police Say Driver Was Drinking and Using THC
Court documents and testimony revealed disturbing details about the hours leading up to the crash. Prosecutors allege Batlok had spent the night drinking heavily and repeatedly using a THC vape pen before getting behind the wheel.
According to reports presented during a bond hearing, Batlok and his friends purchased alcohol after playing basketball earlier that evening. Investigators said the group shared a 24-pack of Corona beer, while Batlok allegedly consumed several additional drinks.
The defendant reportedly admitted he drank until he felt “gone.”
He also allegedly told investigators that he had been hitting his THC “dab pen” throughout the night leading up to the crash.
Police noted that officers found multiple open alcohol containers inside the wrecked BMW, and Batlok’s clothing reportedly smelled strongly of alcohol after the collision.
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Investigators Say He Tried to Blame Dead Friend
One of the most shocking allegations in the case involves Batlok’s statements to investigators after the crash.
While being interviewed at the hospital, Batlok allegedly claimed that Dewayne Aiseia had been driving the BMW shortly before the collision. He reportedly told investigators that he handed the keys to his friend after they stopped at a gas station.
However, detectives later confronted him with photographic evidence allegedly showing him seated in the driver’s seat before the crash occurred.
After being shown the photo, Batlok reportedly admitted he had actually been driving the vehicle at the time of impact and became emotional and remorseful during questioning.
Prosecutors Say Driver Never Tried to Avoid Crash
During court proceedings, prosecutors argued that Batlok made no attempt to avoid the deadly collision.
According to reports from the hearing, investigators determined the BMW never braked or swerved before crashing directly into the pole.
That detail has become a major focus in the case as authorities continue investigating whether intoxication and impairment played a significant role in the deadly crash.
Suspect Remains Behind Bars
Following his arrest, a judge set Batlok’s bond at $250,000, and he remains in custody while awaiting further court proceedings.
His next scheduled court appearance is set for June 22.
Meanwhile, the death of Dewayne Aiseia has left family and friends mourning the loss of a young life cut short in a tragedy investigators believe could have been prevented.
The case has also renewed concerns about the dangers of impaired driving, especially when alcohol and drugs are combined behind the wheel.
What do you think about the allegations in this deadly crash case? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
