HAYDEN, Idaho -- Kootenai County Sheriff's Deputies are investigating a deadly motorcycle crash. At 7:15 p.m. Monday, deputies and volunteer Search and Rescue personnel arrived at the scene of a fatal motorcycle crash on Hayden Lake Road near Rhapsody Lane.
An extensive search took place throughout the day utilizing volunteer Search and Rescue members, Kootenai County Sheriff's Deputies and helicopter support from Spokane County Sheriff's Department.
The find was an unfortunate conclusion to an extensive search for two missing people that had left Camp Mivoden on Saturday, September 4 on a 1985 Honda CB650S motorcycle. Virginia L. Acker, 64, of Pasco and Gary E. Otterness, 40, of Onalaska, Washington left the camp at 5:30 p.m. They did not return as the rest of the group was preparing to leave the camp. Both Acker and Otterness were at the camp as part of a church retreat.
Initial investigation appears they intended to return to camp Mivoden. Due to a cell phone trace, Kootenai County Deputies searched the area roads for a possible accident involving the couple and their motorcycle.
Both the rider and passenger were dead and found about 100 feet down a steep embankment in the timber. Investigators said both were wearing motorcycle helmets when the crash occurred. It is unknown if alcohol is a factor. Initial notification has been made to family members.
