A suspected DUI driver was arrested after rolling a pickup truck towing a fishing boat on Interstate 5 near Ferndale. The crash blocked lanes and caused major traffic delays. (Photo: WSDOT)
FERNDALE, Wash. — A driver towing a fishing boat was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after a rollover crash on Interstate 5 near Ferndale on Friday evening, according to the Washington State Patrol.
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Trooper Kelsey Harding said the crash occurred at approximately 6:36 p.m. June 19 on Interstate 5 near Main Street at milepost 262. The collision temporarily blocked all southbound lanes and caused significant traffic disruptions during the evening commute.
Rollover Crash Blocks Interstate 5
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, the incident initially blocked the left southbound lane near Main Street. However, conditions quickly worsened as the crash scene expanded across the roadway.
At 6:55 p.m., WSDOT reported that all southbound lanes were blocked while emergency crews responded and worked to clear the scene.
The driver of the truck was arrested for suspicion of DUI and booked into Whatcom County Jail.
— WSP Trooper Kelsey Harding
Pickup Truck Towing Boat Overturns
First responders arrived to find a Toyota Tundra pickup towing a fishing boat on a trailer overturned near the median. The crash left the truck and trailer partially in the left southbound lane.
Investigators said the driver lost control of the vehicle before it rolled. The fishing boat remained attached to the trailer following the crash.
No other vehicles were involved. The driver was the truck’s only occupant and managed to climb from the overturned vehicle before crews arrived.
Driver Treated at Scene
Medics evaluated the driver at the scene and later released him without transporting him to a hospital. Despite the dramatic rollover, troopers reported no injuries.
Authorities have not released the driver’s identity or additional details regarding potential charges.
DUI Remains a Leading Cause of Serious Crashes
The arrest comes as law enforcement agencies across Washington continue summer traffic enforcement efforts targeting impaired driving, speeding and other dangerous behaviors.
Washington State Patrol reminds drivers that alcohol, drugs and fatigue can significantly impair reaction times and increase the risk of serious crashes, especially when towing trailers or recreational equipment.
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