Chelan, Washington – Driver of Stolen Truck Hospitalized After Police Disables His Vehicle

Chelan, Washington (October 17, 2019) – A driver of a stolen truck was taken to the hospital following the end of a police chase on South Lakeshore Road. Police used a pit maneuver to resolve the chase, disabling the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect was taken to Lake Chelan Community Hospital, before being booked into Chelan County Jail.

The incident started on State Highway 97A, where the suspect was pulled over by a deputy from Chelan County. The suspect fled and drove southbound, but turned north on Navarre Coulee Road. Eventually the chase turned onto South Lakeshore Road, where the suspect was reported to have swerved to avoid a vehicle. At this point, police attempted a pit maneuver to safely resolve the chase. The suspect is believed to have been intoxicated during the incident.

About Vehicle Accidents

According to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 29 people die everyday from vehicle accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver, which translates to a death every 50 minutes. Additionally, 2016 data also points to 28% of all traffic-related deaths in America. Driving under influence covers not only alcohol-impaired drivers, but also those under the influence of other substances. Drugs other than alcohol accounted for 16% of vehicle crashes in 2015 data. Marijuana use in particular is rising, with 13% of nighttime weekends drivers being found with marijuana in their system. Whether impaired by alcohol, narcotics, or any other substances, the dangers of driving under influence should be clear. Driving is an activity that requires awareness at all times and following street regulations as much as possible. Being under the influence of other substances brings down road awareness, as well as closing down reflex skills and attention.

We urge everyone to be in a stable health condition before going behind the wheel. Any condition that can cause impairments on your judgement puts many people at risk, which goes not only for drivers but pedestrians as well. Aside from the obvious dangers of drunk driving, it would also help to identify busy roads and try to avoid being in their proximity to minimize any risk of a vehicle accident. Any mistake can lead to injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well. Our sympathies and compassion for anyone who was caught up in a vehicle accident due to intoxicated drivers.

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