A late-night crash on the 26000 block of Pacific Highway South in Kent ended with a 29-year-old Spanaway woman under arrest on suspicion of DUI and a two-year-old evaluated by medics, according to police. Officers say the woman was driving a Lexus GS when it collided with a Chevrolet Tahoe. The child in the Tahoe was secured in a car seat and checked at the scene by medical crews, and both vehicles were left too damaged to drive and had to be towed. Kent officers say the Lexus driver, who has prior DUI convictions, was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.
What Kent police say
According to the Kent Police Department, officers were called to the 26000 block of Pacific Highway South at about 11:13 p.m. The department reported that the Lexus driver "smelled of alcohol and was exhibiting signs of impairment." She was arrested and taken to the Kent jail, where a breath test reportedly registered at more than twice Washington's legal limit. Kent police said the Tahoe's driver and the two-year-old passenger were both evaluated by medics at the scene, and that both vehicles were later towed from the roadway.
How Washington law treats DUI
Under Washington law, a driver who records a blood- or breath-alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher within two hours of driving can be charged with DUI, per RCW 46.61.502. The Washington State Courts' sentencing grid sets mandatory minimum jail terms, higher fines and longer license revocations when a driver's BAC is elevated or when there are prior DUI convictions. The grid also outlines increased penalties when a passenger under 16 is involved. That framework means prosecutors could seek enhanced sanctions if charges are ultimately filed in this case.
Scene response and injuries
Tow crews removed the Lexus and the Tahoe while medics checked on the Tahoe's driver and the toddler. There was no immediate report of life-threatening injuries. Officers collected evidence at the scene as the investigation continued, and the Kent Police Department said both vehicles were rendered inoperable and towed from the area. No additional suspects were reported.
Legal stakes for the driver
If the case proceeds to formal charges, the Lexus driver could face penalties that increase with prior DUI convictions and the recorded breath-alcohol level. The Washington Department of Licensing can also impose an administrative license suspension regardless of the outcome of any criminal case. Under Washington's DUI sentencing structure, BAC readings well above the 0.08 limit and repeat DUI offenses carry mandatory minimum jail time, higher fines and lengthy license revocations, and ignition interlock devices are commonly ordered when driving privileges are reinstated. Prosecutors will review the investigative file before deciding whether to file charges.
