BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Bellingham Police have released the results of their investigations into 2 separate and unrelated fatality crashes that occurred last night, September 28th.
The first crash, reported about 7:55pm, occurred on Mount Baker Highway near Chance Road when a 54-year-old man was riding his bicycle eastbound. An eastbound 2001 Subaru Legacy struck the cyclist and he died of his injuries at the scene. The Subaru driver reported not being able to see the cyclist in all dark clothing in the unlit section of the highway. No charges or citations were issued.
A second crash was reported about 8:45pm at the intersection of Woburn, Iowa and Yew Streets. First responders arrived to find a 2007 Dodge Charger resting on its side after colliding with a tree. Witnesses reported seeing 2 cars racing east on Iowa Street and when they passed the intersection 1 lost control and collided with the tree. The driver was out walking around and the passenger remained in the car with critical injuries. The 28-year-old passenger was eventually declared dead at the scene.
The driver, identified as Oscar Ali Bengoa-Alas, age 24, exhibited signs of intoxication and the investigation provided probable cause to arrest and charge him with suspicion of vehicular homicide, driving under the influence and driving while his license was suspended.
Bengoa-Alas was transported by ambulance to PeaceHealth St Joseph Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. Upon release from the hospital this evening, September 29th, Bellingham Police booked him into the Whatcom County Jail.