Watch for Tire Flattening Spikes in the Road in West Yakima

Yakima Police have a warning for drivers today; Watch out for spikes in the road at 66th and West Chestnut that could flatten your tire.

THE SPIKES WERE DISCOVERED MONDAY AFTERNOON AFTER SEVERAL FLATTENED TIRES

Yakima Police Department officials put out the warning on Monday afternoon after several drivers suffered flat tires after running over the spikes. Authorities say someone threw the spikes on the road earlier in the day.

THE SPIKES ARE USED IN THE MILITARY CALLED “CALTROPS”

They’re called “caltrops” and they’re tire flattening spikes used by the military. Either someone threw them in the road to cause damage or they were dropped by accident which authorities say it highly unlikely.

OFFICIALS SAY THE SPIKES COULD BE IN OTHER PLACES IN WEST YAKIMA

But there could be other places in the West Valley area where the spikes could cause damage including along parts of Summitview Avenue. Police are concerned about a number of situations people may find themselves in trying to avoid the spikes if they’re spotted in the road including the possibility of a crash. A report in the Yakima Herald Republic newspaper says the caltrops will cause a blowout of a tire rather than a slow release of air and that could startle a drive and cause a crash.

IF YOU KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE INCIDENT CONTACT POLICE

Police are hoping someone has information about who is responsible for the spikes being thrown in the road. If you know anything that could help polie contact Yakima police at 509-575-6200. Tips may also be left with Yakima County Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

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