(Federal Way, Washington) At around 3:45 a.m on Sunday, The Federal Way Police Department were reported on a collision that involved a suspected drunk driver fleeing from a Federal Way State trooper, one uninvolved vehicle and a Washington State Patrol vehicle.
A Federal Way State trooper was planning a traffic stop on I-5 South to confront a suspected drunk driver. The driver still proceeded to drive for 13 miles. The individual driving hit an uninvolved vehicle and a Washington State Patrol Vehicle.
The Federal Way Police confirmed that the uninvolved vehicle had four people in the vehicle. Three were sent to the hospital with minor injuries, with one person dead on scene.
After the initial crash the driver lost control of their vehicle which led the man to hit the trooper’s vehicle.
The Individual got arrested with a DUI, Vehicle Homicide and eluding and will be sent to the King County Jail.
Perspective on I-5 South:
Because the driver fled from the trooper, investigators may want to review the following violations in RCW 46.61.024. They may specifically review (1) of this section. This law states that any motor vehicle who willfully fails or refuses to come to a stop and drives their vehicle in a reckless manner while attempting to disobey the pursuant police officer, after getting visual or audible signal to come to a stop, should be guilty of a class c felony.
Because the driver was charged with a DUI, investigators may review RCW 46.61.502 (1) and (b). (1) discusses that if a person is guilty of driving under the influence of intoxicated liquor, cannabis, or any drugs (a) within two hours driving and has 0.08% BAC or higher in their system is under a DUI. Another violation that is considered a DUI is (d). Under both influence of or affected by an intoxicated liquor, cannabis or any drugs.
Some of these violations listed under RCW 46.61.502 can be the cause of the fatal collision between the 24 year old Kent man and the four victims.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the Federal Way Police can help you receive more information from the investigation. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the circumstances.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional experienced in car accident cases. They can help explain your options and guide you through next steps. In addition, seeking support from family, friends, or grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
