Bellingham Police Investigations: DUI, Firearm Arrest, and Hit-and-Runs

Over the past week, Bellingham patrol officers have been busy investigating multiple incidents, including a DUI arrest involving a firearm and a series of hit-and-run collisions.

DUI & Firearm Arrest

Early Friday morning (just after midnight on Jan. 30), officers responded to a report of a male passed out behind the wheel in the middle of an intersection. A concerned witness knocked on the window, prompting the driver to wake up and drive away. Officers soon spotted the suspect’s silver Volkswagen Passat near James and Kentucky and conducted a traffic stop.

While the primary officer engaged the driver, the cover officer noticed loose ammunition on the passenger-side floorboard. The driver was asked to step out, and at that moment, the officer spotted the grip of a firearm. A further search revealed the driver was prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior convictions. He was also found with a small amount of methamphetamine.

The firearm was recovered and booked into evidence. The driver was arrested and charged with:
✅ Unlawful possession of a firearm
✅ Failure to have an ignition interlock device
✅ Possession of a controlled substance
✅ Driving with a suspended license

Hit-and-Run Collisions Involving Pedestrians

BPD is currently investigating three separate hit-and-run collisions in which motorists struck pedestrians and fled without stopping. Two of the incidents resulted in serious injuries, while the third involved minor injuries.

• One case remains under investigation.

• The other two cases have been solved, with the drivers identified and arrested.

The initial investigations were handled by patrol officers who collected evidence and worked to identify the vehicles and drivers. In two of the cases, a dedicated traffic officer followed up during his shift the next day, gathering crucial information that led to identifying the suspects. This was a great example of teamwork between BPD’s evening and night shifts, as well as the day shift CSIs and Traffic Division.

A Reminder for Drivers

With snow in the forecast, we’re urging all motorists to slow down, stay alert, and be extra cautious when turning—especially at crosswalks. Pedestrians and cyclists share the road, and visibility can be reduced in winter weather. Drive carefully, leave extra space, and always yield to those on foot or bike.