Your trusted source for local Federal Way, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Sound Transit is seeking public feedback on five proposed routes for the Tacoma Dome Link Extension, which will connect Federal Way to the Tacoma Dome. Public comments are accepted until February 10, 2025. The Sound Transit Board will finalize the preferred route in 2025 after considering public input and completing the Environmental Impact Statement by 2027.
The Federal Way Community Calendar highlights several upcoming holiday events, including the Grand Kyiv Ballet's performance of 'The Nutcracker' featuring prestigious Ukrainian dancers on December 22, the Snowflake Gala on December 21 supporting the African Young Dreamers Empowerment Program, and 'Cookies With Mrs. Claus' on December 19, all aimed at enhancing community engagement during the festive season.
Drug arrests in Federal Way have surged by 402%, according to Mayor Jim Ferrell, who attributes this increase to new legislation that allows police to pursue suspects. Despite the rise in drug-related offenses, overall crime rates in the city have decreased by over 11%, with significant reductions in violent crimes and theft. The mayor emphasizes the importance of addressing drug use to enhance community safety.
An Auburn man, Robinpreet Singh, has been charged with vehicular homicide following a fatal crash in Federal Way on December 1 that resulted in the death of 35-year-old Ryan Golden. Singh was allegedly speeding and intoxicated, with a blood alcohol content of 0.132. He is currently held on bail while facing charges related to the incident.
The Federal Way Police Department has reported a fake iPhone scam on Facebook Marketplace, where a victim lost $300 to a seller who later deleted his profile. This incident highlights the risks of online transactions.
Two women have filed tort claims against the Federal Way Public Schools for sexual assaults committed by former teacher Glenfield Watkins at Totem Middle School. The claims, filed on November 18, 2024, seek damages for the abuse endured and raise concerns about student safety and the district's accountability.
Community members gathered in Federal Way for the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, enjoying live music, a visit from Santa, and refreshments. Mayor Jim Ferrell praised local sponsors and highlighted a significant drop in crime rates, which have decreased by over 11% compared to last year, while drug arrests surged by over 402%.
South King Fire Chief Dave Van Valkenburg and Deputy Chief Lisa Defenbaugh have been placed on paid administrative leave amid separate independent investigations. This decision was made unanimously during the Dec. 4 Board of Commissioners meeting, with Deputy Chief Kevin Crossen appointed as Acting Fire Chief to ensure continued operational leadership.
A Federal Way man was arrested on December 8, 2024, for vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, and DUI after a fatal crash on I-5 in Kent that resulted in the death of a passenger and injuries to others. This incident raises significant concerns about impaired driving and road safety in the area.
Three East Federal Way projects, including a multifunctional community space by Integrity Life Church and upgrades to the Federal Way Senior Center, have received over $1.5 million in King County grants through a participatory budgeting process aimed at enhancing community resources and honoring local Black pioneers with a street renaming.