Pierce County, WA – A high-speed chase early Tuesday morning ended in chaos when a fleeing vehicle crashed into a ditch, ejecting a dog through the front windshield. The driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI.

At around 12:45 a.m., Pierce County Sheriff’s Office deputies attempted a routine traffic stop on a car with a registration expired for more than three years. The driver accelerated to elude officers, prompting a brief but dangerous pursuit.

The chase lasted less than 30 seconds. The suspect failed to turn at an intersection and drove straight into an embankment. During the crash, a large dog was thrown through the windshield and ran toward law enforcement.

“The impact drugs have on our community is heart-wrenching, especially when they affect our furry friends,” said PCSO Deputy Carly Cappetto.

A 39-year-old male driver and a 28-year-old female passenger were taken into custody. Officers found drugs and drug paraphernalia on the male driver. Another smaller dog was discovered in the backseat.

The male suspect faces multiple charges, including eluding with endangerment, driving under the influence, driving with a suspended license in the first degree, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and second-degree animal cruelty. The vehicle was seized under a search warrant.

The female passenger, owner of both dogs, was released at the scene. She later recovered the dog that had fled, and both animals were unharmed.

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