Underage driver arrested in Burien for cannabis DUI, firearm possession

A Burien deputy arrested an underage driver early Thursday morning for suspected DUI related to cannabis use and unlawful possession of a firearm. The incident occurred around 1:16 a. m. when the deputy stopped an unlicensed vehicle and detected a strong odor of burnt cannabis. The driver, under 21, admitted to consuming cannabis before driving, which violates Washington state law for individuals under this age.

Police noted that physical signs of impairment and the driver's failure to complete field sobriety tests led to the DUI charge. Following the arrest, officers found a firearm inside the vehicle, which the driver was prohibited from possessing. The Burien Police Department reiterated that cannabis use while driving increases the risk of accidents, citing research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The department's statement included a reminder, “Grass is always greener when you are not DUI. ” This incident underscores the ongoing issues surrounding underage substance use and road safety.