TENINO — Thurston County deputies assisted Lewis County authorities in the arrest of a driver suspected of impaired driving following a vehicle pursuit. The pursuit began in Lewis County when deputies attempted to stop a vehicle suspected of driving under the influence.
Thurston County Sheriff’s Office deputies entered the pursuit near Tenino. The suspect's vehicle entered Tenino city limits traveling at speeds of approximately 90 mph. A deputy operating a cruiser equipped with a Grappler vehicle immobilization system joined the pursuit, and the device was deployed 33 seconds later. Released video footage shows the device deployment brought the vehicle to a stop.
After exiting the vehicle, the driver exhibited signs of impairment while holding a container and ignored verbal commands from deputies. The driver attempted to reenter the vehicle. Deputies then deployed a less-lethal 40mm round to subdue the individual. Deputies secured the driver in custody after a brief physical struggle. The suspect was transferred to Lewis County authorities and processed at the Lewis County Jail.
The suspect faces allegations of driving under the influence, attempting to elude law enforcement, driving with a suspended license, driving without a required ignition interlock device, and resisting arrest. Authorities stated the suspect's vehicle had a documented history of fleeing law enforcement in Lewis County. Bail for the suspect was set at $75,000. Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders said, "Great multi-county teamwork!"