CHOKEPOINTS

Driver busted with Halloween-themed fake passenger to use HOV lane

Oct 30, 2025, 6:57 AM

HOV fake passenger halloween...

A photo of the fake passenger a driver attempted to use to drive in the HOV lane of I-5. (Photo courtesy of WSP)

(Photo courtesy of WSP)

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) caught another driver using a fake passenger in order to ride in the HOV lane.

This fake passenger fit the Halloween theme, with WSP Trooper Rick Johnson calling it a “scary HOV violation.”

Johnson is reminding the public that items do not count as humans. The driver was pulled over on northbound I-5 near the I-90 interchange.

Back in June, a woman had a similar plan, dressing up a fake skeleton in the back seat with a black t-shirt and a paper crown.

Her excuse? That she “accidentally left her Halloween decoration up,” Johnson wrote on X.

Follow Frank Sumrall on X. Send news tips here.

Chokepoints

Ship Canal Bridge...

Nate Connors

It’s back! Revive I-5 in Seattle returns this weekend

Join the revitalization of Seattle's Ship Canal Bridge this weekend with engaging events and updates from WSDOT on preservation efforts.

2 days ago

I-405 bothell...

Frank Sumrall

Lanes reopened after back half of double dump truck rolled over on I-405 in Bothell

The back half of a double dump truck rolled over on southbound I-405 in Bothell, causing significant delays.

2 days ago

I-5 NB Federal Way Crash...

Jason Sutich

All lanes of northbound I-5 in Federal Way back open after multi-vehicle crash

A three-vehicle crash on NB I-5 in Federal Way was blocking lanes, causing traffic delays.

3 days ago

Chains wsp snoqualmie pass...

Frank Sumrall

Chains required at Snoqualmie Pass as WSP enforces $500 fines

If you're headed to the passes, make sure to check for chain requirements. WSP is enforcing restrictions at Snoqualmie Pass, checking both cars and trucks.

3 days ago

DuPont interchange...

Chris Sullivan

Birth of an interchange continues in DuPont

2026 is going to be a good year for I-5 drivers through DuPont. The new interchange at the Stelicoom-DuPont Road will open this year, providing better access to the city and JBLM.

3 days ago

lane closures des moines fife bellevue...

Nate Connors

WSDOT keeps busy with nightly lane closures in Des Moines, Fife, Bellevue

WSDOT's late-night projects this week may delay evening plans in Des Moines, Fife, and Bellevue. Stay informed on traffic updates.

4 days ago

Driver busted with Halloween-themed fake passenger to use HOV lane