Bellingham Police Crack Down on DUIs – 40 Arrests in January Alone!

If you’ve noticed a lot of flashing lights around town lately, it’s not just your neighbors getting an early start on Valentine’s decorations—Bellingham Police have been cracking down on impaired drivers, and the numbers are staggering. Just 28 days into January, officers have already made 40 DUI arrests, including one for a driver who mistook downtown Bellingham for a Fast & Furious set.

A Wild Ride Through Downtown

Late one night, officers patrolling downtown spotted a driver doing burnouts near closing time. The car, a Mercury Grand Marquis, continued recklessly fishtailing down Railroad Avenue, catching the attention of officers who were already on the lookout for impaired drivers. When one officer attempted to block the driver to prevent harm to pedestrians, the suspect hit the gas instead, drifting straight through the intersection.

What followed was a dangerous high-speed pursuit through downtown, during which the driver:

• Crashed into a parked car on Chestnut Street

• Fled the wrong way down a one-way street

• Lost control, veered into oncoming traffic, and hit a barrier near Bay Street and Granary Avenue

• Continued speeding at 70 mph in a 35-mph zone on Roeder Avenue

• Lost both front tires—one at a time—and kept driving

• Finally crashed into the railroad tracks at Roeder Avenue and Coho Way

Even then, the drama wasn’t over. The driver and his passenger bailed out of the wrecked vehicle, but officers quickly caught up. The driver was arrested, while the passenger tried to flee on foot—unsuccessfully.

Facing the Consequences

The driver was booked into jail and is now facing an impressive list of charges: ✅ Attempting to elude a police vehicle
✅ Driving under the influence
✅ Hit and run
✅ Reckless endangerment
✅ Reckless driving
✅ Driving with a suspended license

Thankfully, no one was injured, but the potential for harm was enormous. Bellingham Police remind everyone that Super Bowl weekend is approaching, and officers will be out in full force watching for impaired drivers. There’s plenty of time to plan a safe ride home—no excuses!

So, if you’re thinking about driving after a few drinks, remember: your tires (and your freedom) are better off staying intact. Stay safe, Bellingham!