Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Cristian Lara Guzman, 18, pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and unlawful firearm possession in Bellingham following a fatal shooting. The incident occurred when Guzman and his friend, Alejandro Pallares, were playing with a loaded gun, resulting in Pallares' death from a gunshot wound to the head. Guzman remains in custody on $1 million bail.
The Seattle Mariners aim to recover from a recent loss against the Washington Nationals as they prepare for a series opener against the Minnesota Twins. Leody Taveras and Ben Williamson helped tie the game before a late Nationals surge secured their victory. Meanwhile, the Bellingham Bells kick off their season tonight on the road against the NightOwls.
The daughter of a Ferndale woman, who died during the 2021 heatwave, has filed a lawsuit against seven major oil companies, claiming their contributions to climate change led to her mother's death. The suit, filed in King County Superior Court, names Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Shell, and others as defendants. The lawsuit highlights the dangers of extreme heat, which resulted in 100 heat-related deaths in Washington that week.
A truck carrying bees rolled over on Weidkamp Road in Lynden, blocking both lanes and prompting warnings from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO). Initially estimated at 250 million, the number of bees on the loose was later corrected to approximately 14 million. Authorities advise the public to maintain a distance of at least 200 yards from the scene due to the risk of bee swarming.
The 2025 Downtown Sounds music festival lineup has been announced, featuring various artists and activities. Attendees can enjoy local food trucks, family-friendly activities, and an expanded beer garden during the event.
A Sedro-Woolley man, Scott Granger, was acquitted of all charges related to an attempted murder of his father due to insanity. Granger, who shot at his father in January 2021, will be committed to Western State Hospital indefinitely, with a judge ruling he cannot have contact with his father.
Roadwork along Squalicum Parkway will disrupt access to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center starting June 2. Construction crews will build sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks, with work expected to last until October. One lane will remain open, but flaggers will manage traffic daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Skagit County residents may experience smoky air next week due to a postponed prescribed burn. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources rescheduled the burn for June 2, pending favorable weather conditions. The burn area is located between SR 9 south of Big Lake and Lake Cavanaugh Road near Summer Lake.
Bellingham City Council approved two ordinances to enhance affordable housing options, allowing middle housing in nearly all residential zones. The interim ordinance will take effect on June 3, aligning with future state housing laws. A final vote on the proposed changes is scheduled for June 9.
Trader Joe’s opened its second location in Bellingham, WA, on Thursday, attracting a line of eager customers. The grand opening featured music from the Meridian High School band and saw Bianca and Tony Summers become the first customers by purchasing a plant. The store operates daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.