DUI Suspect Arrested After Runaway Boat Crashes Near Ferry in Washington

STEILACOOM, Wash. — A dangerous and unusual boating incident in Washington state has led to the arrest of a 21-year-old man suspected of operating a vessel under the influence.

Video released by the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office shows a boat speeding uncontrollably across the water on May 1, heading directly toward nearby ferries with no one at the helm. Witnesses told deputies the driver appeared to be passed out as the vessel moved at high speed.

The boat narrowly avoided colliding with two ferries before veering off course and crashing into rocks along the shoreline. The impact threw the man into the water.

Responding deputies located the 21-year-old at the scene and reported he smelled strongly of alcohol. Authorities also say bottles of alcohol were found inside the boat.

The man was taken into custody on suspicion of boating under the influence. No other injuries were reported.

Officials later removed the damaged boat from the water and impounded it as part of the investigation.

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