Ferndale, WA — Evan Hayes, a 47-year-old resident of Blaine, tragically lost his life in a suspected DUI crash early Friday morning on Highway I-5 in Ferndale. The accident occurred around 2:40 a.m. when a car entered the southbound lanes at Portal Way, lost control, and struck a barrier, leaving the vehicle disabled in the left lane. Unfortunately, Evan Hayes, who was traveling on a motorcycle, could not avoid the stopped car and collided with it.
Evan Hayes was immediately transported to Harborview Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the car, a 20-year-old from Bellingham, was arrested and booked into Whatcom County Jail on charges of vehicular homicide. Another passenger in the vehicle, also a 20-year-old, was arrested on outstanding warrants, including driving with a suspended license and negligent driving.
As the news of Evan Hayes’s passing spread, his family and friends took to social media to share their grief and ask for prayers. Lynn Hayes, Evan’s aunt, posted on Facebook, "Please pray for my nephew, Evan Hayes. He started running a fever earlier and is on the way to the hospital. He is upset because he was so looking forward to seeing his people this evening."
The community responded with an outpouring of support. Sharon Dawkins commented, "Many prayers for Evan and all of you!" Others, like Teresa Hortman and Harold Jenkins, simply shared, "Praying for him!" and "Prayers for him!" showing the deep concern and solidarity within the community.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) continues to investigate the crash, with preliminary reports suggesting that drugs or alcohol may have played a role. The accident caused significant delays, with the southbound lanes closed until approximately 8 a.m. Friday morning.
Evan Hayes’s death has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him. The community’s heartfelt prayers and support are a testament to the impact he had on those around him.