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Family members of Jenoah Donald, a Black motorist fatally shot by a deputy during a traffic stop in Clark County, settled a wrongful death lawsuit for $3.5 million. The incident occurred in 2021 after deputies pulled over Donald for a faulty rear light, which escalated into a struggle and resulted in his death. The county denies liability despite the settlement.
A judge in Bryan Kohberger's quadruple-murder trial seeks to identify individuals who may have breached a gag order. Fourth District Judge Steven Hippler suspects that someone linked to law enforcement or the prosecution leaked sensitive information, which could complicate jury selection and increase trial costs.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) set a June 1 deadline to find a new home for Bellingham's iconic graffiti rock. If a suitable location is not identified, WSDOT plans to break the rock apart and preserve pieces for the Whatcom Museum. The rock has served as a canvas for community messages since it was first tagged in 1969.
Blaine schools appointed Dan Chaplik as interim superintendent, effective for the upcoming school year. Chaplik previously served as superintendent in Sultan School District since 2007 and will replace Christopher Granger, who transitions to Sultan on July 1.
Whatcom County Council members voted to encourage an immediate increase in Lummi Island ferry fares, which have not risen since 2012. Council member Ben Elenbaas warned that delaying the increase could lead to even larger hikes in the future to address financial shortfalls.
Boxx Berry Farm in Ferndale plans to sell its 60-acre property to the Port of Bellingham to establish an agricultural research station. The Whatcom County Council approved the sale with a preliminary investment of $3 million from the Economic Development Investment Board. The farm will continue operating until its closure on October 1, offering U-pick opportunities.
A Seattle judge rescinded an order requiring the Trump administration to admit 12,000 refugees into the U.S. The revised ruling directs the government to evaluate refugee admissions on a case-by-case basis, allowing 160 refugees with imminent travel plans to enter the country.
The San Francisco 49ers signed quarterback Brock Purdy to a 5-year, $265 million contract extension. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners begin a three-game series against the San Diego Padres tonight, competing for the Vedder Cup. The WNBA's Seattle Storm will tip off their season tomorrow against the Phoenix Mercury.
Whatcom County hosts several community events this weekend, including a Bike Party in downtown Bellingham on May 16, celebrating Bike to Work and School Day. The weekend also features the Puget Sound Local Yarn Shop Tour and Blaine's Spring Block Party, offering activities for families and live music. The Western Symphony Orchestra will perform film scores on Saturday evening, adding to the local entertainment options.
Aaron Judge's eighth-inning home run lifted the Yankees over the Mariners 3-2 on May 14. The game featured a strong performance from Seattle's Julio Rodríguez, who drove in two runs and made a key defensive play. The Yankees secured the win with Judge's decisive hit, marking his 15th home run of the season.