High-Speed Chase: Trooper’s Vehicle Hijacked

A Christmas Day assault on a Washington State Patrol lieutenant has exposed the escalating dangers law enforcement officers face from suspects who brazenly attack uniformed troopers on busy highways.

Story Highlights

WSP lieutenant physically assaulted and patrol vehicle stolen during routine I-5 stop
Suspect led high-speed pursuit from Seattle to Lynnwood before tactical arrest
Multiple serious charges filed including robbery, assault, and DUI
Incident highlights growing risks to officer safety during roadside encounters

Brazen Christmas Day Attack on State Trooper

A Washington State Patrol lieutenant conducting a routine stop near Northgate became the victim of a shocking assault when a pedestrian walking across northbound I-5 lanes physically attacked her and stole her patrol vehicle. The December 25th incident unfolded around noon when the trooper approached the man for his own safety on the busy interstate. Instead of cooperation, the suspect pushed the officer to the ground and commandeered her patrol SUV, launching a dangerous pursuit that would span multiple jurisdictions.

Multi-Agency Pursuit Ends in Tactical Arrest

The stolen patrol vehicle triggered an immediate response from multiple WSP troopers and Seattle police, who pursued the suspect north on I-5 toward Lynnwood. The pursuit demonstrated the coordinated response capabilities of Washington law enforcement agencies working together to neutralize a direct threat to public safety. Officers successfully executed a tactical maneuver near Lynnwood on southbound I-5, bringing the dangerous chase to an end without injuries to officers or bystanders, though the patrol vehicle sustained damage during the incident.

Serious Criminal Charges Filed Against Suspect

King County Superior Court Judge found probable cause to hold the unnamed suspect on multiple serious charges including robbery, attempting to elude police, possession of a stolen vehicle, assault, and driving under the influence. The suspect’s refusal to appear at his Friday court hearing delayed bond proceedings until Saturday afternoon. A judge had previously approved a blood draw at the hospital, suggesting suspected drug or alcohol impairment played a role in the attack. The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office awaits completion of WSP investigation materials before filing formal charges.

A man in Seattle, WA, pushes a female WSP out of her patrol vehicle and then steals it for a joy ride. But the thing is, she is not just a police officer, but a Lieutenant.

There is a critical DEI lesson to be learned from this. They should have dispatched a social worker… pic.twitter.com/xcOagOsrdT

— Cash Loren (@Cashloren) December 26, 2025

This incident underscores the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers during routine traffic stops and pedestrian contacts. The attack on a uniformed WSP lieutenant demonstrates how quickly seemingly routine encounters can escalate into life-threatening situations. Trooper Rick Johnson’s confirmation of the pursuit details highlights the professional response that prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome on one of Washington’s busiest highways during the holiday travel period.