Yakima Police continue emphasis patrols around the city to slow drivers and prevent serious crashes by drivers running red lights. The patrols are a direct result of a rash of serious and fatal crashes reported in the city over the last 6 to 8 months.  "The culture of anything goes on Yakima streets must change." The words from Yakima Police Chief  Matthew Murray in a recent letter to the community talking about challenges facing the city and the police department when it comes to Yakima traffic.

Even without a traffic unit YPD Officers have contacted lots of drivers

Officers have been busy during the emphasis. Yakima Police Spokesperson Yvette Inzunza says over the first week of the month Officers made 685 traffic stops. In all the traffic stops officers issued 197 citations. During the week officers investigated 10 collisions by drivers who didn't stop at a red light and arrested 13 drivers for Driving Under the Influence.

Police are also stopping drivers near area schools

Yakima Police Officers also are busy watching for speeding drivers in area school zones. During the week of October 2 through October 8 officers issued 5 school zone speeding citations. Obviously last week was busy but police officials say it was a typical week of traffic enforcement in Yakima.

Officers started the week investigating a serious two car crash

This week started with a two car crash at the intersection of 40th Avenue and Summitview Avenue. One driver, who police say failed to stop for the red light at 40th Avenue was seriously injured. The other driver was treated for minor injuries at the scene.
Police urge drivers to slow down and stop for red lights. They say the emphasis patrols will continue until the end of the year.

See the 25 weirdest scams ever

 

CHECK IT OUT: 100 sports records and the stories behind them

 

15 Iconic Retail Stores That Don't Exist Anymore (But We Totally Miss Shopping At)

More From 107.3 KFFM