Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A 28-year-old man was arrested in Blaine, WA, for allegedly committing a hate crime after he threw a wooden decoration through a motel window and made derogatory comments to the owner. Police found probable cause for the arrest based on the damage and the man's statements. He was later released on personal recognizance.
Nearly 300 stakeholders at Western Washington University criticized leadership for recent layoffs affecting 94 positions. They urged administrators for transparency regarding future job cuts, particularly after the disbandment of the student affairs office. As of November 18, no response was received to their letter.
An 18-year-old from Everett, Jose Juarez-Montez, received a three-year prison sentence for stabbing a man during a fight in Bellingham. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries from two stab wounds in June. A trial for the second suspect, a 25-year-old male, is set for January.
Whatcom County's Plantation Shooting Range plans to reopen its indoor facilities for law enforcement in January 2026, followed by public access in March. The outdoor range, however, faces delays due to ecological cleanup, potentially pushing its reopening to 2028. The state Department of Ecology mandated this cleanup after lead contamination was detected.
Salmon fishing in Skagit County will temporarily close from the mouth of the Skagit River to Marblemount Bridge and the Cascade River to Rockport-Cascade Road Bridge starting November 19. The state Department of Fish and Wildlife cites nearing catch limits for coho salmon as the reason for the closure, which will last until January 31, 2026. Recreational fishing for game fish remains open under annual rules.
Drivers on southbound I-5 near Bellingham should anticipate delays due to a right lane closure this week. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will implement the closure from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 19 and 20 for rock removal.
First baseman Josh Naylor is finalizing a five-year contract with the Seattle Mariners, according to a source. Naylor, who became a free agent after the Mariners' postseason run, made a significant impact during his short tenure with the team, hitting .299 with nine home runs in 54 games.
The Los Angeles Rams secured a 21-19 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, marking their fifth consecutive win. Jason Myers missed a crucial 61-yard field goal attempt as time expired, allowing the Rams to celebrate a messy but significant win. Matthew Stafford threw two touchdown passes, while the Rams' defense recorded four interceptions, including two by Kamren Kinchens.
The North Cascades Highway reopened on November 17 after a four-day closure due to anticipated snowfall. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) implemented the closure between Ross Dam Trailhead and Silver Star Gate as part of its winter weather protocols. Last year's seasonal closure occurred on November 18.
Two individuals are suing the City of Bellingham, claiming injuries from accidents at locations where recent street safety upgrades occurred. One man alleges negligence after a collision while riding his electric scooter, and a woman claims inadequate street lighting contributed to her being struck while in a crosswalk. Both lawsuits highlight concerns regarding the city's safety measures despite recent improvements.