The Brief
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22-year-old Tristen Finch remains in critical condition after an SUV ran a stop sign and turned in front of his motorcycle on April 30.
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A benefit poker run organized by Finch’s aunt and a local bike club will take place Saturday morning to raise funds for medical expenses.
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The event costs $20 per rider or $30 per couple and will include raffles and silent auctions.
BENTON CITY, Wash. – A family is rallying around their 22-year-old family member after a devastating motorcycle crash left him fighting for his life, turning to the community for support during National Motorcycle Safety Month.
Tristen Finch was riding his motorcycle to work just before 7 a.m. on April 30 when authorities say an SUV ran a stop sign and turned directly in front of him on Gage Boulevard. Finch collided with the side of the vehicle, with his helmeted head crashing through the rear window. He remains in critical condition.
Now, his family is organizing a benefit ride to help with mounting medical expenses and to show the young man he has a community behind him.
“We’ve gotten some donations put together and I’ve passed out some flyers trying to get the word out there to get everybody to come down and join us,” said Ashley Elliot, Tristen’s aunt. “Really show him he’s not the only one and people are there for him.”
The benefit ride, structured as a poker run, will begin at 11:30 a.m. this Saturday. Participation costs $20 per rider or $30 per couple. Throughout the day, attendees can also participate in raffles and silent auctions to raise additional funds.
Elliot emphasized that Tristen’s recovery journey is just beginning, and every contribution makes a meaningful difference in supporting him through this difficult time.
The crash highlights the dangers motorcyclists face on roadways, particularly during National Motorcycle Safety Month. Safety experts consistently remind drivers to be vigilant about checking for motorcycles at intersections and before making turns.
For motorcyclists, wearing proper safety gear—as Tristen was doing with his helmet—can be the difference between life and death in crash scenarios. While his helmet likely prevented even more severe injuries, the incident demonstrates how vulnerable riders remain even when taking proper precautions.
Community members interested in supporting Tristen and his family can attend Saturday’s benefit ride. Those unable to attend but wishing to contribute can contact event organizers for alternative ways to do so.
The local bike club partnering with Elliot to organize the event hopes to see a strong turnout, not only to raise necessary funds but also to demonstrate community solidarity for a young man facing a long and challenging recovery process.
As Tristen continues to receive medical care, his family remains grateful for the outpouring of support they’ve already received and hopeful that Saturday’s event will provide both financial assistance and emotional encouragement during this critical time.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder for all motorists to remain alert and cautious, especially at intersections where visibility may be limited and where failure to yield can have life-altering consequences.
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