Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Trevor Story's two-run homer led the Boston Red Sox to a 3-1 victory over the Seattle Mariners on June 18. Garrett Crochet pitched six strong innings, allowing only one run and striking out eight batters. The win secured the Red Sox's series victory, marking their tenth win in the last thirteen games.
Authorities identified 42-year-old Mark Fakkema as the victim of a fatal explosion in his Oak Harbor home. Investigators found he was making improvised explosive devices from commercial-grade fireworks, leading to the detonation that injured two others. Fakkema lacked the necessary licenses to possess or alter these explosives.
The 3rd Annual Juneteenth Festival in Bellingham will take place on June 21, featuring live music, a parade, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, the Downtime Summer Kickoff in Ferndale offers two days of entertainment, while Lynden hosts tractor pulls at Berthusen Park. Indoor options include a performance of "Down the Rabbit Hole" at the Mount Baker Theatre.
Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory won four gold and one silver award at the 2025 European Hot Sauce Awards. Their sauce "Super Fuzz" earned gold in the Hot Chili Sauce category, while "Seeing Stars" received silver in Extra Hot Chili Sauce. The recognition follows their appearance on the YouTube show Hot Ones, enhancing their reputation.
Bellingham officials partnered with home-sharing platform Nesterly to expand affordable housing options for renters. This initiative aligns with Mayor Kim Lund's executive order focused on addressing housing affordability in the city. Homeowners can list available rooms, while renters can create profiles and search for housing at no cost.
A 39-year-old man suffered stab wounds in a downtown Bellingham incident, leading to his hospitalization. Two suspects, aged 25 and 18, were arrested after allegedly challenging the victim to a fight before the attack. The investigation continues as both suspects remain in custody without bail.
Tacoma officials search for 29-year-old Elijah Dominick Hylton, wanted for the first-degree murder of Ty Jenkins in August 2020. An arrest warrant has been active since January 2023, but Hylton remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities advise the public not to approach him and to report any sightings immediately.
Aleksandr Meshkov, 32, was arrested in Whatcom County after evading authorities for over a decade related to a child sex abuse case. A warrant for his arrest was issued in 2011 after a child reported being assaulted by him. Meshkov was extradited from Missouri and remains in custody without bail.
Average wages in Whatcom County rose 6% to $1,286 per week in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Despite this increase, Whatcom County still ranks second-lowest in weekly wages among Washington's ten largest counties. A study from SmartAsset indicates that single adults in Washington need nearly $110,000 annually to live comfortably.
The Port of Bellingham appointed Tiffany DeSimone as Interim Executive Director following Rob Fix's departure. DeSimone, a Whatcom County native with over a decade of experience at the Port, will lead critical projects while a search for a permanent director begins.