Amber Phillips
Traffic on I-90 came to a standstill Saturday as law enforcement responded to a possible bomb threat on Mercer Island, raising immediate concerns among local residents and travelers. This incident, which began around 12:30 p.m., involved a driver allegedly throwing an explosive device from their vehicle during a police stop.
Incident Overview
According to Washington State Patrol (WSP), the situation unfolded when Bellevue police attempted to pull over a vehicle. Instead of stopping, the driver fled onto westbound I-90. The police pursued the vehicle until it came to a halt. As the vehicle stopped, the driver reportedly discarded what appeared to be an explosive device.
- Date of Incident: October 12
- Time: Around 12:30 p.m.
- Location: I-90 near Mercer Island, Washington
Trooper Rick Johnson confirmed that after the device was thrown out of the window, the bomb squad was dispatched to the area. In the meantime, two individuals were taken into custody.
Traffic Disruptions
As police worked to secure the scene, traffic was halted in both directions of I-90. This led to significant delays for drivers trying to navigate the area.
- Westbound lanes were closed from Bellevue Way.
- Eastbound lanes were also shut down, causing long backups.
- Reopening: Eastbound lanes resumed around 2 p.m., while westbound lanes reopened later in the day.
Authorities noted that the increased police presence was necessary to manage the potential threat and ensure public safety.
Public Safety Measures
Local law enforcement took several precautions to ensure the safety of nearby residents and passersby. The bomb squad’s response was part of a systematic approach to handle potential explosives. Law enforcement urged drivers to avoid the area until the situation was resolved.
Authorities assessed that the device was not an immediate threat after thorough evaluations. The quick action by Bellevue police and WSP likely prevented any escalation of the situation.
Community Reactions
Residents in the Mercer Island and Bellevue areas expressed concern over the events. Many took to social media to share their experiences and the unsettling nature of having a bomb threat near their homes.
One local resident stated, “It’s shocking to think something like this could happen here. I just hope everyone stays safe.” Officials reassured the public that law enforcement is equipped to handle such situations and prioritized community safety.
Conclusion
The incident on I-90 highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with potential threats in everyday situations. While traffic disruptions were unfortunate, the rapid response from authorities helped to mitigate risks and maintain public safety. As investigations continue, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing inquiries surrounding the suspect and the discarded device.
For real-time updates, residents are encouraged to follow local news outlets and remain aware of their surroundings
