‘You don’t have to drink and drive’: Kitsap County sees spike in deadly DUI-related crashes
Apr 21, 2025, 6:00 PM
The scene after a crash in Kitsap County. (Photo courtesy of the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office)
(Photo courtesy of the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office)
The Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office reported a troubling trend when it comes to fatal DUI-related crashes.
In 2024, Kitsap County deputies handled 240 DUI incidents, according to the sheriff’s office—the most since the 1990s.
“We’re seeing some of the highest numbers that we’ve seen since the 1990s right now, and it’s just frustrating because if you’re going out, that’s fine. There’s a million other choices,” Ashley Bonus, whose sister was killed in a DUI crash, said.
Law enforcement stated 14 people died in DUI crashes in Kitsap County last year. However, many more were injured.
“Impaired driving is one of the biggest problems that we have to address, and it’s resulting in roughly half of our fatality and serious injury collisions,” Kitsap County Deputy Rob Corn said.
Kitsap County deputies worry trend will continue into 2025
While no numbers are available yet for 2025, the concern for deputies is that the trend will continue.
Nationwide, in 2023, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 12,429 people died in DUI-related crashes. That’s about one fatality every 42 minutes—all preventable.
“Uber, Lyft, taxi, friends, family. Worst case, call your dad. He’ll come get you. There are so many options out there. You don’t have to drink and drive,” Kitsap County Deputies Joshua Buovino and Rob Corn said.
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Kitsap County deputies are trying to spread the word and save lives. It’s part of a campaign to raise awareness and get people to think about the consequences before they drink and drive—for themselves, their potential victims, and the families left behind.
“You don’t ever think it’s going to happen to you, and it does. And when it does happen, you kind of lose a piece of you,” Terry Gammons, whose daughter was killed in a DUI crash, said.
Deputies said even if someone drives while impaired and is lucky enough not to hurt or kill someone, they still face arrest, a fine, and a suspended license.
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