A motorcyclist in Washington state was killed Friday, August 2, when a car ran over him and dragged his body across a parking lot. The victim, Dennis “D.J.” Thornlow, was riding his scooter in the city of Anacortes when 49‑year‑old Josue Flores, a local driver, allegedly struck him.
Police say Flores followed Thornlow too closely. When Thornlow swerved into a lot, he fell off the bike. Flores immediately turned his car toward the body, hitting and dragging the motorcyclist for more than 60 yards. Surveillance video shows the car’s sharp turn and the heavy impact.
Flores has been charged with felony hit‑and‑run, vehicular homicide and second‑degree murder. He had a long criminal history. A 1996 case involved a 30‑minute BB‑gun shooting at a bike rider while another incident in 2022 saw him assault a healthcare worker. In 2025, neighbors reported that Flores talked about gang ties and made violent threats.
The judge set bail at $50,000 at an August 19 hearing, which prosecutors said was too low for a case involving murder. Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani called the decision “shocking” and stressed that should have been “no bail at all.” Flores is free on bond and can remain a flight risk.
Thornlow’s partner, Jordan Weeks, expressed shock and hopelessness. “I thought, did I hear him wrong?” she said, describing how deep her anger has cut into her faith. Weeks said Thornlow was respectful of everyone, loving his 13‑year‑old daughter and supportive of her career ambitions.
The case has drawn national attention for its high bail amount and for the contrast between Thornlow’s peaceful reputation and the violence launched by Flores. Supporters argue the suspect should remain in custody while the investigation continues. The court’s decision, however, has left many in the community stunned.
Source: Fox News
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