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Fleeing Intoxicated Driver Decides Not to Run from K9 Laslo
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On June 20th, 2015 at approximate 3:35 a.m., Spokane Valley Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Thurman noticed a maroon Honda traveling at an extremely high rate of speed eastbound on Broadway at Argonne Road in Spokane Valley. Deputy Thurman estimated the vehicle’s speed at 80 mph and accelerating rapidly.
Deputy Thurman, attempting to stop the reckless driver, activated his lights and siren but the Honda continued eastbound at speeds ranging from 80-100 mph. With the driver continuing to drive in a very dangerous and reckless manner, and the lack of vehicles and pedestrians due to the time of day, Deputy Thurman continued the pursuit.
The driver, later identified as 26-year-old Andrew J. Claar, turned off the vehicle’s lights as he continued to try and evade Deputy Thurman. Claar quickly swerved into a driveway in the 300 block of North Walnut, jumped out of the vehicle and began to run. Deputy Thurman gave an announcement advising Claar his K9 partner, Laslo, would be used to capture Claar if he did not stop. Claar stopped and began saying he was sorry and he was being chased. Deputy Thurman ordered Claar to the ground as he waited for additional patrol units to arrive. Claar started to get on the ground but then stood back up. Deputy Thurman again informed Claar K9 Laslo would be used to take him into custody if he did not comply. This time, Claar wisely complied and was taken into custody without further incident.
After being advised of his rights, Claar told Deputy Thurman some “guys from the bar†were chasing him. Claar said he knew Deputy Thurman was attempting to stop him but he continued to run because he was scared and had been drinking.
Deputy Todd Miller, a certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) and DRE/Standardized Field Sobriety Test instructor (SFST), arrived at the scene and contacted Claar to evaluate if he was intoxicated.  Based on Deputy Miller’s training and experience, he believed Claar was driving under the influence in violation of Washington State law.
Claar was transported and booked into the Spokane County Jail for Attempting to Elude and DUI.
Deputy Mark Gregory
Spokane County Sheriff’s Office
Public Information Officer
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