DUI suspect made a reckless trip along Mount Baker Highway on New Year’s Eve, WSP reports
An intoxicated driver attempting to pass another vehicle in a single-lane roundabout later caused a car fire on Smith Road northeast of Bellingham on New Year’s Eve, according to Washington State Patrol.
Several other motorists witnessed the 20-year-old male suspect driving recklessly at high speeds on Mount Baker Highway. He allegedly rear-ended another vehicle at Nugents Corner, a roundabout on Mount Baker Highway near Cedarville. The suspect then fled south to Smith Road, where the vehicle broke down and caught fire, Trooper Anthony Reese said.
When people came to help the suspect, he punched one person in the face and elbowed another, authorities said. He was eventually restrained when emergency services arrived and was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center, where he allegedly threatened hospital staff.
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of felony harassment, third-degree assault, fourth-degree assault, minor in possession of alcohol, reckless driving, hit and run of an attended vehicle, driving while intoxicated and driving with a suspended license.
He remains in custody at Whatcom County Jail.
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