Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A heat advisory remains in effect for Whatcom and Skagit counties until 10 p.m. on August 12, with temperatures expected to reach the mid 90s. The National Weather Service warns of a moderate risk of heat-related illnesses and advises outdoor workers to take precautions. Cooler temperatures and rain are forecasted later in the week.
Wildcat Cove in Larrabee State Park has reopened for swimming after the Washington State Department of Ecology confirmed that bacteria levels are now safe. The swimming advisory was previously issued due to high levels of enterococcus bacteria detected in late July. For ongoing updates on beach conditions, the public can refer to Ecology’s BEACH program page.
Bellingham Police investigate a potential hate crime after an assault on a security guard outside an apartment building on Sunday night. The victim reported being attacked by two men who threatened him with a racial slur and attempted to choke him. Both suspects remain in custody as detectives assess possible hate crime charges.
Rominic Quiban's walk-off single in the 10th inning led the Bellingham Bells to a 4-3 victory over the Wenatchee AppleSox in Game 3 of the West Coast League Playoffs on August 10. The win secured the Bells' advancement to the North Divisional Championship against the Edmonton Riverhawks. The game featured several controversial calls, including a pivotal play at home plate.
Donald Malone, 61, confessed to shooting a man multiple times on his property in Custer, Washington, after the victim offered him a ride. Malone turned himself in to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office the following day, where detectives discovered the deceased. He remains in custody without bail.
Lynden Police arrested 38-year-old Samuel Swanson in connection with the May 1 crash that killed school bus driver Annette Lyon. Police Chief Steve Taylor confirmed that an extensive investigation led to the arrest, with Swanson scheduled for arraignment today. Further details regarding the crash and the evidence linking Swanson to the incident remain undisclosed.
Mount Vernon Police seek assistance from the public in identifying a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run that left an 82-year-old man injured. The incident occurred on E Division Street between 3:40 and 4:10 a.m. on August 7.
Whatcom County will experience a warming trend this weekend, with temperatures reaching up to 87 degrees on Sunday and Monday. The National Weather Service warns of a moderate heat risk and increased fire weather concerns on Monday. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.
The Seattle Seahawks and Las Vegas Raiders ended their preseason matchup in a 23-23 tie after Jalan Gaines blocked a potential game-winning field goal by Daniel Carlson. Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, in his return to Seattle, expressed mixed feelings about the performance, noting a poor start but a strong second half. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith made his debut for Las Vegas, while rookie Jalen Milroe played the second half for Seattle.
Pete Carroll's return to Seattle ended in a 23-23 tie as the Seahawks faced the Las Vegas Raiders in their preseason opener. Rookies showcased their skills, with quarterback Jalen Milroe completing 6 of 10 passes for 61 yards and a touchdown. The Mariners celebrated Ichiro Weekend with special events as they continue to close in on the Astros in the AL West.