Bellingham man in custody following pursuit into Lynden

A Bellingham man, 30, is in custody after a police pursuit that began when deputies responded to a home where two individuals were pepper-sprayed. The suspect allegedly set a car ablaze outside the residence before fleeing in a different vehicle. Law enforcement, including the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and an Air and Marine helicopter, located him on Noon Road, prompting a short chase. During the pursuit, he rammed a Lynden Police patrol car and collided with another vehicle on Hannegan Road before crashing into a ditch. He faces several charges, including first-degree arson, highlighting a significant escalation in local criminal activity.

The incident raises concerns about public safety and law enforcement's response capabilities. The authorities are expected to increase patrols in the area to deter further violent incidents. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the pepper-spraying and arson are ongoing.