Trooper’s car struck when he was arresting man for DUI

Published 1:30 am Friday, December 15, 2017

EVERETT — While a Washington State Patrol trooper was arresting a man Thursday on suspicion of driving while under the influence, a car struck one of their patrol vehicles in Everett.

The driver’s blood-alcohol content reportedly was more than two times the legal limit of .08.

Sgt. Keith Leary was pulled over near Rucker Avenue and 35th Street with two other troopers shortly before 11 p.m. Leary had just climbed into his vehicle when he felt a thud. A Honda Civic’s side mirror had struck his taillight.

A 22-year-old woman drove away in the Civic, Leary said. He followed for about five blocks before she pulled over. She was arrested for investigation of driving while under the influence and hit-and-run.

Leary said he is thankful no one was hurt.

“We’re out there to get drivers off the road who make the wrong decision before they hurt somebody or themselves,” he said. “We don’t need a tragic reminder to remind us that this is a dangerous thing.”

At least 10 people in Snohomish County were arrested on suspicion of DUI on Thursday, and two of them were involved in collisions, Leary said.