Trooper Thrown From Moving Vehicle After Traffic Stop

MERCER ISLAND, WA — A Washington State Patrol trooper was pushed out of a moving vehicle Wednesday morning after attempting to arrest a driver for suspected impairment. WSP said Trooper Harms pulled over the vehicle on eastbound Interstate 90, just west of East Mercer Way, around 1 a.m.

After performing field sobriety tests, Harms went to arrest the man. According to WSP, a physical struggle ensued on the shoulder of the freeway, and the driver was able to get back in his vehicle with the trooper right beside him. The man started to drive away as the altercation continued.

About 200 yards down the interstate, the trooper said he was pushed from the vehicle, while it was traveling between 25 and 30 mph. WSP said he slid on his back for about 40 feet down the roadway, as the suspect continued to flee.

Trooper Harms credited another driver who saw what happened and used their hazard lights to help block traffic until he could get to safety.

Investigators determined the car involved was a rented 2019 Mazda CX5. According to WSP, the suspect told the trooper an address during the traffic stop, and law enforcement tracked him to an apartment in downtown Seattle later that morning.

WSP said the driver had an active felony warrant and was using an identity stolen from someone in Texas. Inside the apartment, investigators said there was evidence of a "large scale identification theft operation" and methamphetamine. He faces several charges related to auto theft, narcotics and felony assault.

Troopers are seeking any witnesses to the incident, including the driver who helped protect the trooper. Anyone with information can call WSP at 425-401-7788.