Cruise Passenger from Indiana Killed After Car Plunges Into Creek in Ketchikan

KETCHIKAN, ALASKA — A tragic accident in downtown Ketchikan claimed the life of a 57-year-old woman from Auburn, Indiana, who was visiting as a cruise ship passenger. The incident happened Thursday when a vehicle leaving a parking lot mounted the curb, struck pedestrians, and plunged through a fence into Ketchikan Creek.

How the Accident Unfolded

Police said the car suddenly exited a parking lot before breaking through a barrier and crashing into the creek. The woman, who had been walking with her husband along the sidewalk, was struck and thrown into the water, which was about five feet deep. She was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The crash injured at least three other people, including the driver. One pedestrian, also a cruise passenger, bravely jumped into the creek to help rescue those trapped. That individual later required medical attention. Another bystander cut his arm breaking a car window with a rock in an attempt to free the driver.

Emergency Response Efforts

The Ketchikan Fire Department’s swift-water rescue team quickly arrived at the scene to pull victims from the water. Police Chief Eric Mattson confirmed that the bystander actions before first responders arrived helped save lives.

Fire Chief Rick Hines added that the driver, who was in critical condition, briefly regained consciousness while being transported to the hospital. “We got a pulse back and also the person started breathing on their own,” he said during a press briefing.

Cruise Port in Its Busiest Week

Local shop employee Hamilton Gelhar noted that the tragedy struck during one of Ketchikan’s busiest cruise days of the season. “We had 15,000 people docked on cruise ships,” he said, highlighting the crowded sidewalks and boardwalks near the port.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash, and parts of the boardwalk remain closed for safety checks and repairs. Officials have not yet disclosed which cruise line the woman had traveled with, as five ships were docked in Ketchikan that day.

This heartbreaking accident underscores the unexpected dangers that can occur even in bustling tourist hubs like Ketchikan. As investigations continue, residents and visitors alike are left mourning the sudden loss while applauding the bravery of bystanders who risked their own safety to help.

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