Thurston County deputy uses grappler on fleeing suspect causing multiple crashes
By: -----
Thurston County, WA - One of our Sergeants observed a vehicle blow through a red light at a high rate of speed on Steilacoom Rd. The driver continued to accelerate at a high rate of speed and began recklessly blowing through stop signs.
When the Sergeant attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled and drove the wrong way on Martin Way E before entering northbound on I5 at speeds of 90mph with no lights on.
A deputy with a Grappler caught up and immediately deployed the device. The car veered into the barrier before striking a semi-trailer. The driver refused to exit the vehicle as deputies attempted to negotiate a surrender for 20 minutes.
Deputies deployed a stingball distractionary device, and the suspect promptly surrendered. Deputies noted the suspect appeared extremely intoxicated and had a facial injury.
The suspect is being processed for DUI and will subsequently be booked into TCSO jail for DUI, reckless driving, and attempting to elude.