Driver Charged With Felony Eluding After Early Morning Chase on SR 397

Benton County Sheriff's Office via Facebook

An early morning vehicle pursuit resulted in the arrest of a driver in Benton County.

On Sunday at about 1:31 AM, Deputies Witnessed a Reckless Driver in Kennewick

Benton County Sheriff's Deputies attempted a traffic stop of a Dodge Challenger near Columbia Drive and State Route 397.

The Driver Chose to Hit the Gas Instead of the Brakes

Thus, a pursuit followed, eventually ending near Milepost 1 on SR 397. As deputies safely stopped the vehicle, all four occupants were detained. After investigation, it was learned:

• The driver was unlicensed.
• The vehicle displayed license plate belonged to another vehicle.
In fear of their safety, the three passengers had pleaded with the diver to pull over.

Read More: Mail Theft Suspect Arrested in Kennewick With Voting Ballots Recovered

Criminal Charges for the Driver

According to the Benton County Sheriff's Office, the driver is spending time in Benton County Jail, charged with:

•  Felony Eluding
•  Negligent Driving

A driver convicted of attempting to elude a police vehicle in Washington State faces a a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Get our free mobile app

Fortunately, no one was injured in the high speed chase.