On December 25, 2025, a brazen carjacking incident shocked Seattle when a man assaulted a Washington State Patrol lieutenant, stole her patrol car, and led police on a pursuit that ended with his arrest. Exclusive video obtained by TMZ shows the suspect casually crossing Interstate 5 before approaching the stopped patrol vehicle, yanking the female officer from the driver’s seat, shoving her to the pavement, and speeding away in the marked car.
The incident began just before noon on Christmas Day, as the lieutenant was responding to a situation on I-5. According to Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson, the officer was not injured in the altercation and will not face any reprimand for the incident. The suspect, whose identity has not been released, immediately fled the scene in the stolen patrol car, triggering a multi-agency pursuit.
Police quickly mobilized, with Washington State Patrol, Seattle Police, and other local law enforcement joining the chase. The pursuit wound through Seattle and onto southbound Interstate 5, reaching high speeds as the suspect attempted to evade capture. Authorities employed various tactics to contain the situation and ensure public safety during the busy holiday traffic.
The chase concluded in Lynnwood, where officers successfully pinned the stolen vehicle and took the suspect into custody without further incident. Details from King5 News confirm that one person was arrested following the theft, and the investigation is ongoing to determine the suspect’s motives and any potential connections to other crimes.
Video footage from the scene, released by TMZ, provides a clear view of the initial confrontation, showing the suspect’s bold approach and the swift nature of the carjacking. This visual evidence has been crucial for investigators and has sparked discussions about officer safety and protocols during such encounters.
Carjacking incidents have been a concern in the Seattle area, with this event highlighting the risks faced by law enforcement even during routine responses. The Washington State Patrol has emphasized that their lieutenant followed proper procedures and that the focus is on the criminal actions of the suspect.
The suspect is currently being grilled by detectives, and charges are expected to be filed soon. This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers police officers face daily and the importance of community vigilance. As the legal process unfolds, authorities are reviewing the pursuit protocols to ensure effectiveness and safety.
In the aftermath, the Washington State Patrol has reassured the public that such incidents are rare and that their officers are trained to handle volatile situations. The quick resolution and arrest demonstrate the coordination between law enforcement agencies in the region, aiming to maintain peace and security for all residents.
