Track worker critically injured at Washougal motocross event

A Vancouver man working as a track worker at Washougal MX Park was critically injured Saturday when he was struck by a motorcycle that had gone off the track.

Bruce Barnes, 49, suffered broken bones and internal injuries in the morning crash during the Washougal MX National event, according to a bulletin from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Barnes was treated by paramedics on the scene and taken by ambulance to an established evacuation point, where he was transported by a Life Flight helicopter to PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center. He was later transported to OHSU Hospital in Portland.

He was conscious and talking to medical personnel, according to Ryan Huffman, the track manager of Washougal MX Park.

With more than 20,000 fans clogging traffic routes at this annual event, officials determined it was more beneficial and timely to transport the injured man via helicopter.

Barnes was reported in critical condition after the crash, but a CCSO bulletin Saturday evening said his condition had been changed to stable.