“Safety Blitz” Super Bowl DUI Patrols Underway Across The State
In Skagit County, the Sedro-Woolley Police Department reported multiple DUI arrests Saturday, underscoring the heightened enforcement ahead of the game.
According to Trooper Rick Johnson, a caller reported a vehicle striking a concrete barrier and continuing to drive. Troopers located the vehicle traveling southbound on I-405 and stopped it near the Sunset Boulevard exit. (WA State Patrol)
OLYMPIA, Wash. — Law enforcement agencies across Washington are increasing DUI patrols this weekend as Super Bowl celebrations ramp up, with the Washington State Patrol confirming an active DUI emphasis statewide.
Sponsor Message: This Crash Report is sponsored by CrashLaw.NET, a legal resource for crash victims in Whatcom County. Learn more at CrashLaw.NET.
Trooper Kelsey Harding announced the effort on X, warning drivers that troopers are already on the road and urging people to plan ahead if alcohol or drugs are part of their Super Bowl plans.
“Troopers are actively conducting a DUI emphasis today, so don’t earn a penalty before kickoff,” Harding wrote. “If you’re pre-gaming, make the smart play and get a safe ride home.”
📣 The Safety Blitz is on the field now. Troopers are actively conducting a DUI emphasis today, so don’t earn a penalty before kickoff. If you’re pre-gaming, make the smart play and get a safe ride home.#ArriveAlive#GoSeahawks#DriveSafepic.twitter.com/eOtQdBVCMT
In Skagit County, the Sedro-Woolley Police Department reported multiple DUI arrests Saturday, underscoring the heightened enforcement ahead of the game.
Just after noon, officers responded to a report of a possible DUI entering Sedro-Woolley on Cook Road. A witness reported a vehicle swerving and striking a curb. Officers located the vehicle, observed erratic driving, and contacted the driver, who showed signs of impairment. Police arrested the driver for DUI after obtaining a search warrant to collect blood evidence. The driver was later booked into the Skagit County Jail.
Later that evening, officers responded to another report of a suspected impaired driver traveling eastbound on Highway 20 through town. A witness reported severe swerving and erratic driving. An officer located the vehicle as it turned onto North Fruitdale Road and attempted a traffic stop. The driver continued for about a block before stopping.
Police said the driver showed signs of impairment and drug use. Officers also determined the driver’s license was revoked in the first degree. Investigators later learned the arrest marked the driver’s fifth DUI and that the individual had previously served prison time for vehicular assault. The suspect was booked into the Skagit County Jail for felony DUI, driving while license revoked in the first degree, and an outstanding warrant.
Enforcement expected to continue statewide
Sedro-Woolley police said they were aware of additional DUI arrests involving the Washington State Patrol and at least two other Skagit County agencies as the weekend continued.
Law enforcement officials across the state are urging residents to make safe choices, emphasizing that impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of serious injury and fatal crashes during major sporting events and holiday weekends.
I-405 DUI arrest highlights ongoing enforcement
The Washington State Patrol also reported a DUI arrest on Interstate 405 following a 911 call from a concerned driver.
According to Trooper Rick Johnson, a caller reported a vehicle striking a concrete barrier and continuing to drive. Troopers located the vehicle traveling southbound on I-405 and stopped it near the Sunset Boulevard exit. The driver was arrested for DUI.
Troopers emphasized that DUI patrols are continuing through the night and into Super Bowl festivities, urging drivers to make safe choices before celebrating.
“DUI patrols continue tonight,” Johnson said. “Don’t end up watching the Super Bowl from jail.”
What to do if you plan to celebrate
Authorities recommend designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, arranging a ride with friends or family, or staying overnight rather than driving impaired.
“Smoking, ingesting, or drinking and then driving puts everyone at risk,” police said. “Plan ahead and get home safely.”
This article is part of a sponsored Crash Report series.
1 thought on ““Safety Blitz” Super Bowl DUI Patrols Underway Across The State”