Redding Police Arrest Motorist for Alleged DUI Following Collision with Motorcycle
REDDING, CA — “On Wednesday, July 1st, 2026, around 9:40 a.m., officers were dispatched to a vehicle versus motorcycle traffic crash. A Dignity Health ambulance witnessed the crash and reported it.
The Redding Police Traffic Unit responded and began investigating the crash.
Officers learned that a 23-year-old male was riding his motorcycle southbound on State Route 273 near Kenyon Road when a Lexus SUV turned directly in front of the motorcyclist. The motorcyclist was unable to avoid the other vehicle and collided. The motorcyclist was ejected and sustained critical injuries. Thankfully, a Dignity Health ambulance was traveling behind the motorcyclist and was able to stop and render immediate aid. The ambulance transported the rider to Mercy Medical Center, and the rider is expected to survive his injuries.
The driver of the Lexus was identified as 66-year-old Shyla Watson-Barker. Watson-Barker was found to be under the influence of alcohol and prescription medications. Watson-Barker was arrested and booked into the Shasta County Jail for 23153(a) VC – Felony DUI causing injury and 23153(b) VC – Felony DUI causing injury over .08 BAC.”
