Suspected Drunk Driver Crashes Into Bellingham Police Vehicle

Bellingham, WA – A Bellingham Police Department Crime Scene Investigators vehicle was totaled early this morning in a violent crash caused by a suspected drunk driver at the intersection of Barkley and Orleans Street around 2 a.m.

According to a release from the Bellingham Police Department, a significant crash happened this morning at a little past 2 a.m., showing the dangers of driving while intoxicated. An 18 year old driver of a pick-up blew through a red light, while speeding, at the intersection of Barkley Boulevard and Orleans Street. A Bellingham Police Department Crime Scene Investigation truck was struck and sent spinning 180 degrees from its travel path. A collision so violent, both trucks are totaled.

The 18 year old driver immediately fled the scene without checking on the officer or his own 17-year-old drunk passenger. Shortly after, as a K-9 team was tracking the driver, another officer located him and he was taken into custody without incident. The 18 year old driver and 17 year old passenger were both uninjured.

The BPD officer sustained non-life threatening injuries (laceration and concussion) and was treated at the ER and released a few hours later.

18 year old driver – booked into jail for DUI and hit and run.

17 year old passenger – cited for MIP and released to family

Photo: Bellingham Police Department

Washington State Patrol troopers are investigating this collision. Roadways in the area have since reopened.

This is the 2nd injury sustained to a Bellingham Police Officer this week. Earlier this week another officer had to be treated for a laceration and concussion for injuries he received while making an arrest. The suspect in that case, raised a heavy flashlight over his head and violently struck the officer in the head. This suspect also went to jail for a serious assault offense. The officer that was assaulted is recovering.