Target Zero - Region 12

08/22/2026

08/18/2026

Looking at applying for a first-time driver license this fall? Starting Nov. 1, first-time drivers under age 25 will need to complete a work zone and first responder safety course to get their license. This free course will be available to everyone on Sept. 1.

08/05/2026

NEW! Neurodivergent people — and others who would benefit — can now pick up a special blue envelope meant to hold important papers, such as vehicle registration and insurance information. The goal is to make interactions with law enforcement safer and more productive.

Learn more: https://licensingexpress.wordpress.com/2026/06/11/blue-envelope-program-launches-for-drivers-and-passengers-who-are-neurodivergent/

07/24/2026

Target Zero will be at National Night Out in East Wenatchee Thursday July 30th and on Tuesday August 4th in Ellensburg! We look forward to seeing you there.

07/22/2026

WRONGWAY I-90 DRIVER ARRESTED FOR DUI
At 3:49 a.m. on Sunday, July 19, Kittcom received a report of a wrong-way driver on I-90.

Wrong-way driving on a divided, high-speed highway is extremely dangerous and is often the product of intoxication. Two vehicles moving toward each other at 70 miles per hour close the distance between them at 140 miles per hour, leaving almost no time to react and avoid a terrible collision—even when both drivers are completely sober.

The vehicle was reportedly traveling west in the eastbound lanes and was last seen near milepost 118, east of the City of Kittitas. Deputies in the area headed toward the freeway, while Ellensburg Police officers prepared to use spike strips to stop it, if it reached Ellensburg.

Deputy Beau Hazzard drove east on I-90 with his emergency lights activated, hoping to catch the wrong-way driver’s attention. Near milepost 112, Hazzard saw the approaching car and began weaving across the lanes to warn and slow the vehicles behind him. Fortunately, the driver saw the lighted patrol vehicle and stopped.

Deputy Hazzard contacted the driver, a 21-year-old Buckley man, and determined there was probable cause to arrest him for DUI.

The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes DUI enforcement because impaired driving remains one of the greatest—and most preventable—threats to the safety of our community. This incident could easily have ended in catastrophic injury or death.

Please make the decision to drive sober before drinking begins. Arrange a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or stay where you are. A plan made before drinking begins can prevent a tragedy after it ends.

07/08/2026

A great morning for a car seat check! Thank you to Chelan-Douglas Health District for coordinating this check for the soon to be parent of four. It takes a village to keep our community and roads safe. We have a network of certified car seat technicians throughout the region who are ready to help! Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming car seat check events throughout the region! #

07/07/2026

Big sarge was clocking. Deputies were stopping. Here’s how it went. 📈 Take this as a reminder to slow down and make safe decisions.

07/07/2026

The 4th of July high visibility enforcement numbers are in, and Kittitas County Sheriff Deputies had a busy weekend!

Speed and DUI are leading factors in fatal collisions in Kittitas County. Please slow down and plan a sober ride home. We want everyone to get home safe every trip.

High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) funds voluntary overtime shifts for specific traffic emphasis patrols. The hours below were a mixture of speed and DUI emphasis patrols throughout Kittitas County.

07/04/2026

In 1776, if you had too much to drink at the celebration, your horse probably knew the way home.

In 2026, your car definitely doesn't.

This Fourth of July, plan ahead with a designated driver, rideshare, taxi, or sober friend. Celebrate freedom responsibly and get home safely. 🎆🚗