Your trusted source for local Tumwater, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Olympia Regional Airport's lack of a habitat conservation plan (HCP) limits revenue growth, generating $1.76 million in the first half of 2025. Senior Manager Chris Paolini stated that the absence of new revenue opportunities hampers financial stability and the ability to develop critical properties.
Tumwater police arrested 31-year-old Brandon Michael Lee after he allegedly assaulted an officer with a knife during a foot chase on July 24. Lee, initially identified under a false name, resisted arrest and cut an officer on the wrist before police subdued him. He faces multiple charges, including second-degree assault and possession of methamphetamine.
The Tumwater School District will host its annual "Stuff the Bus" school supply donation drive on August 9, 2025. The event aims to collect new school supplies for incoming students to ensure they are adequately prepared for the upcoming school year. Community participation is encouraged to support local students in need.
Mark Lee Blevin, 59, was arrested in Tumwater for attempting to withdraw $9,000 from Twinstar Credit Union using a fake identity. Police found counterfeit identification and other fraudulent items in his possession, and Blevin claimed another individual orchestrated the scheme.
A 31-year-old man, Scott Clifford Bice, was arrested after providing a false identity during a traffic stop while riding a bicycle without required lights. Police discovered he was wanted on a felony warrant for escaping community custody and found stolen items in his possession. Bice faces charges of criminal impersonation and drug possession.
A 32-year-old man, Justin John Hansen, was arrested after allegedly speeding over 100 mph in Tumwater and causing a collision that injured a 76-year-old driver. Hansen attempted to flee on foot but was detained by police, who noted signs of narcotic use. He faces multiple charges, including reckless driving and vehicular assault.
Sensitive text messages regarding the participation of biological boys in girls' high school sports prompted responses from Olympia and Tumwater School District officials, who clarified their lack of involvement. The messages, misattributed to the districts, sparked concern about targeting marginalized community members. Community member Mary Weber urged officials to address the issue and ensure it does not recur.
The City of Tumwater plans to establish a new communications department following endorsement from the Budget and Finance Committee. This initiative aims to improve communication and transparency within the city government.
A Tacoma man, Edward Troymine Johnson, was arrested in Tumwater for allegedly possessing a stolen Dodge Charger. Officers discovered the vehicle in a restaurant parking lot and learned Johnson had an active felony warrant for escaping community custody.
Skilled working dogs from Cairn Canine Detection detected 24 separate graves at Tumwater's Union Pioneer Calvary Cemetery on July 22, 2025. This effort aims to restore the historic site, which contains many undocumented burials from the 19th century. The project, part of a broader cemetery restoration initiative, involves collaboration with local historical societies and volunteers.