Shoreline Area News

Update: Burglary and fire in Lake Forest Park were connected

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

at this residence on apparently led to resident being shot as a burglar at a nearby home. Photo courtesy

UPDATE: The burglary suspect who was shot by a resident of has been positively identified as a 40-year-old male who lives in the home that caught fire in the early morning hours of 1/25/26.

Shortly after the residents were evacuated due to the fire, the male left the scene on foot.

At approximately 5:02am, officers responded to a reported burglary and shooting incident at the Woodglen Townhouse Condominiums, located just 200 yards away from the earlier house fire.

Officers located the same 40-year-old male in the backyard of a residence with a gunshot wound to the upper body.

The homeowner provided a statement to detectives indicating they feared for their safety and safety of others in the home when the suspect approached them holding an object in his hand.

The homeowner fired one round, striking the burglary suspect in the upper body.

Evidence recovered at the scene and from the injured suspect is consistent with the homeowner’s statements.

Following an investigation by fire investigators with the , the cause of the Ballinger Way NE house fire was determined to be accidental and not the result of . The fire department reported that it was an electrical fire.

As of this update, the suspect remains in police custody at an area hospital while receiving medical treatment.

Traffic Alert – Signal Outage at Bothell & Ballinger Way NE in Lake Forest Park

Update: the signals are working now, running on generator power pending permanent repairs.

Photo courtesy LFP PD

Due to a collision at the intersection of Bothell Way NE (SR-522) and Ballinger Way NE (SR-104) Wednesday morning, January 28, 2026 a vehicle struck and disabled the power and electrical control box for the traffic signal.

Photo courtesy LFP PD

The signal is currently out of service. Crews from Lake Forest Park Police, Public Works, and WSDOT are responding to provide traffic control and work on repairs.

Repairs are expected to take several hours. Expect significant delays and backups in the area. Please avoid the intersection if possible and use alternate routes.

"Thank you for your patience while crews work to restore the signal."

1600 attend the Activists Assemble event in Shoreline January 25, 2026

Participants create whistles at Activism workshop
Photo courtesy North Seattle Progressives

Activists Assemble: A Festival of Activism was held at Shorewood High School on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Over 1600 people attended, including community members and volunteers, representatives of 80+ organizations doing important work to address urgent issues in the Shoreline | Seattle | North King and South Snohomish county communities, including immigrant rights, healthcare, the housing crisis, effective activism, the environment, voting rights and many more.

Attendees learned how they can support the work of those organizations, attended workshops on protest/rally safety, making Whistle kits, using cellphones to record events & actions, installing Signal on phone, registering voters.

Three excellent panel discussions were held on the issues of

Responding to Healthcare Challenges in WA State 2026
A way home: Community responses to housing and homelessness
Immigration

Activist Assemble Panel Discussions

Health & Wellness: “Responding to Healthcare Challenges in WA State 2026”

Panelists:

State Representative Lauren Davis, 32nd Legislative District
Emily Brice, Co-Executive Director of Advocacy, Northwest Health Law Advocates
Tamara Cunitz, Nashi Immigrants Health Board

Housing: “A way home: Community responses to housing and homelessness”

Panelists:

Alison Eisinger, Executive Director of Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness
Jeff Paul, Organizer, House Our Neighbors
Kerry O’Meara, Community Connector, North Helpline to discuss Homelessness Prevention

Immigration

Panelists:

Palmira Figueroa, National Day Labor Organizing Network (NDLON)
Henry Hwang, Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NIRP)

Those in attendance learned about the current status of these "most concerning" issues and what they can do to support work being done to advance urgently needed solutions to these issues.

The event was organized by North Seattle Progressives

What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? January 28 – February 3

By Kate Ledbetter, www.DestinationShoreline.com

What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? January 28 – February 3
Shoreline’s week ahead is full of meaningful moments, creative gatherings, and ways to connect as a community. From Destination Shoreline’s Must-Attend Event of the Week, the Edwin T. Pratt Day of Remembrance, to business workshops, tastings, grand openings, music, dance, and senior-focused programs, there’s something happening every day. Don’t miss the new What’s Up Next Section, a look ahead at upcoming events weeks out.

Destination Shoreline’s Must-Attend Event of the Week:
Edwin T. Pratt Day of Remembrance
Thursday, January 29 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Shoreline College
Join the Shoreline community for an evening of reflection honoring the life, achievements, and lasting influence of Edwin T. Pratt, a respected leader and champion of civil rights. This special event offers an opportunity to learn, remember, and reflect on Pratt’s impact and the values of equity, justice, and community leadership that continue to inspire today. The event will take place in the Main Dining Room (Room 9215) of the Pagoda Union Building. The program is open to everyone, and community members are encouraged to attend.

Shoreline Area Events You Should Know About this Week:
(Follow the event links for additional information, directions, and add to your calendar links.)

From Data to Dollars: Preparing Your Business for FIFA 2026
Thursday, January 29 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Shoreline City Hall

Ballinger Thriftway Empress Gin Tasting!
Friday, January 30 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Ballinger Thriftway

Bella's Voice Shoreline - Grand Opening!
Saturday, January 31 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Bella’s Voice Thrift Store

Kinderfest January 31 at the Shoreline Center
Saturday, January 31 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Shoreline School District Building

Connection | Weekly Psychic & Intuitive Experience
Saturday, January 31 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Salvation: Artist Collective

Shoreline Big Band Dance at Shorewood High School
Saturday, January 31 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Shorewood High School

Hidden Gems of the Norwegian Song Repertoire
Sunday, February 1 3:00 PM, Richmond Beach Congregational Church

Mind(full) Aging
Tuesday, February 3 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM, Shoreline/LFP Senior Activity Center

Alzheimer’s Association Special Presentation Series at Laurel Cove
Tuesday, February 3 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Laurel Cove Community- Assisted Living & Senior Care Community Shoreline

Upcoming January Blood Donation Sites in Shoreline
Monday February 2 | Town & Country Market Shoreline | 10 AM to 4 PM
Your donation this month is critical to health of our community.
Please make a blood donation appointment today.

What’s Up Next in Shoreline (Save the Date):
(Follow the event links for additional information, directions, and add to your calendar links.)

Community Workshop: Shoreline South/148th Street Light Rail Station Subarea
Tuesday, February 10 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Church

Community Workshop: Shoreline North/185th Street Light Rail Station Subarea
Wednesday, February 11 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Spartan Recreation Center

Wonders of Willow Weekend at Sky Nursery
Saturday & Sunday, February 14 & 15 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Abstract Paint & Sip to Music Night
Sunday, February 15 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Vault 177

For Upcoming Events in Shoreline visit: DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar

Destination Shoreline is brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, Real Estate Broker with Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline, Front Door Creative, Success Minded Leader, Bri Crow Creative, Phases Clinic, Become a Destination Shoreline Partner, learn more here

Echo Lake teacher Ranice Innocent honored by professional association

Ranice Innocent

Staff Recognition Spotlight

At last week's School Board meeting, Echo Lake Title I/LAP Teacher Ranice Innocent was honored for her leadership and dedication to advancing literacy education in Washington State, as recognized by the Professional Educator Standards Board.

Ranice served on the Reading Endorsement Work Group, where she helped review and update the state’s Reading Endorsement Competencies to ensure they reflect current, evidence-based reading practices.

Over ten months, Ranice contributed her expertise in literacy research, provided thoughtful feedback beyond meeting times, and consistently kept the needs of P–12 students at the center of the work.

Her commitment, collaboration, and insight made a meaningful impact on this important statewide effort.

"Thank you, Ranice, for representing our district and supporting educators and students across Washington!"

Firefighters train in Swift Water Rescue

Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

This week Bothell Fire Department and Shoreline Fire Department crews braved the frigid temps to attend Swift Water Rescue training.

The training included both a Technician and Awareness/Operation component.

A/O crews assisted with the preparation and deployment of the Avon boat and built a raft-lowering system. These objectives would aid swimmers with rescues during a flood or swift water event.

Maneuvering around a float
Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

Technicians placed the Avon boat and motor into operation and practiced maneuvering around floats. They also practiced righting the boat if it capsized.

Fire departments train constantly to learn rescue techniques for all situations and to keep their skills sharp.

The Northwest Flower & Garden Festival February 18-22, 2026

The Northwest Flower & Garden Festival is returning to the Seattle Convention Center February 18-22, 2026.

Join us for 5 days of flower and garden inspiration!

Discounted tickets available when you purchase through our Facebook Event.

Follow this link to grab the deal

HOURS:

Wednesday, February 18: 9am - 8pm
Thursday, February 19: 9am - 8pm
Friday, February 20: 9am - 8pm
Saturday, February 21: 9am - 8pm
Sunday, February 22: 9am - 6pm

ADMISSION:

General Admission (ages 24+) $24.00

This limited Early Bird price, and savings of $5 will go to full price of $29 on February 18, 2026.
Ticket valid for one admission. Valid for one day only.

Student (ages 13-23) $14.00

Valid for any ONE day of the show.

Half Day Admission - $15.00

Valid for entry after 3PM on any ONE day from Wednesday to Saturday OR after 2PM on Sunday.

Best Value! Two Day Admission - $42.00

Valid for any TWO days of the show. Tickets admits 1 person per day. Not transferable.

Five Day Admission - $85.00

Valid for 1 person each day of the show. Not transferable.

Visit our website for more information including Blooms & Bubbles, Traveler's Tea, and Garden Tours ticket pricing.

Lake Forest Park City Council supports both ballot measures for Shoreline Schools

At its January 22, 2026, meeting, the Lake Forest Park City Council adopted Resolution No. 26-2062 related to two Shoreline School District No. 412 ballot measures scheduled for the February 10, 2026, election.

The resolution acknowledges and expresses support for the following ballot measures placed on the ballot by the Shoreline School District Board of Directors:

Proposition No. 1 – Educational Programs and Operations Levy, which would replace an expiring levy and fund educational programs and operational expenses not fully funded by the State of Washington; and
Proposition No. 2 – Capital Levy for Technology Improvements and Support, which would replace an expiring levy and fund instructional technology acquisitions, equipment upgrades, and related training and support.

If approved by voters, each proposition would authorize the Shoreline School District to levy property taxes on taxable property within the district for four years.

The City Council’s action followed testimony received at a duly advertised public meeting.

The full text of Resolution No. 26-2062 is available on the City’s website.

Shoreline City Council supports both Shoreline School District levies

Shoreline City Council supports both Shoreline School District levies

On January 26, 2026, the Shoreline City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 559 supporting Shoreline School District’s Propositions 1 and 2 and encouraged Shoreline voters to approve both.

Proposition 1 is a replacement levy for educational programs and operations and Proposition 2 is a replacement levy for technology improvements and support. Both propositions will be on the February 10, 2026 ballot.

Proposition 1 replaces an expiring levy and authorizes a four-year levy (2027 – 2030). The School District’s current four-year Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) levy will expire at the end of 2026. As per the School District, revenue from the EP&O Levy will fund services and programs not fully funded by the state. According to the School District, this levy provides the District with 16.5% of its General Fund operating revenue.

Proposition 2 replaces an expiring levy and authorizes a four-year levy (2027-2030). The current four-year Capital Levy for Technology Improvements and Support will expire at the end of 2026. Renewal of the Capital Levy would meet the District’s ongoing technology needs for capital improvements.

Learn more on the Shoreline School District’s 2026 Replacement Levies webpage.

Jobs: WSDOT NWR Hazardous Materials Lead (TPS4)

WSDOT

NWR Hazardous Materials Lead (TPS4)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$82,857 – $111,409 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 (TPS4) to join the Northwest Region (NWR) Environmental Services Office (ESO) that protects Washington’s environment and communities as part of operating and improving the state transportation system.

The NWR ESO team works closely with all transportation partners, users, and diverse communities to protect and improve the environment through its policy development, technical support and training, and leadership in sustainability and resiliency. This lead position supports the agency’s mission, strategic plan goal areas, and safety of the traveling public by serving as a regional leader in hazardous materials and solid waste.

The role applies best available science and professional judgment to conduct studies, prepare technical documentation, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

This lead position supports compliance with federal and state environmental requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA), and the Clean Water Act (CWA).

Work includes preparing and overseeing hazardous materials technical reports, Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, Sampling and Analysis Plans and other advanced transportation studies.

The lead also coordinates with regional and headquarters staff on the development and implementation of statewide policies, as well as training and other program initiatives, The position is based in the NWR Dayton HQ office and is supervised by a regional Technical Services Supervisor, with additional technical support from the Headquarters (HQ) ESO Hazardous Materials Program.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

Lady Liberty leads Sunday's protestors at county line

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Lady Liberty holds her torch in one hand and a "resist" sign in the other
Photo by Pamela Mieth

Sunday's weather was mild compared to the last few very cold temperatures on sign waving days.

Photo by Pam Cross

There was no wind to deter the 200-300 volunteer citizens who come to the intersection of Aurora and 205th to protest.

"ICE out of Shoreline"
Photo by Pam Cross

The sign waving is held every Sunday from 1-2pm at N 205th and Aurora, the county line and the border with Edmonds. An additional group gathers at N 175th and Aurora near Shoreline City Hall.

Photo by Pam Cross

Organizers continue to collect food donations for Hopelink.

Live shows this week at North City Bistro

This week at North City Bistro, we have some fun shows in store for you!

WEDNESDAY

Happy Hour with Shapeshifter (4-6pm) NO COVER

Greta Matassa’s Student Showcase (7pm)
THURSDAY

Happy Hour with Frank Kohl (4-6pm) NO COVER

No Regrets, Edith Piaf Tribute (7pm)
FRIDAY

Happy Hour (4-6pm)

Powerhouse (8pm)
SATURDAY

Happy Hour (4-6pm)

North City Bistro
1520 NE 177th St, Shoreline WA 98155

Applications open for Rampathon 2026

Ramps are designed for each property
Photo by Tom Redner

The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) is now accepting applications for Rampathon 2026, an annual community program that provides free, custom-built wheelchair access ramps for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility.

Each year, MBAKS members and community volunteers donate their time and skills to build ramps for neighbors across King and Snohomish counties, helping people safely access their homes and stay connected to their communities.

Who can apply:
Rampathon serves individuals with limited mobility, including:

People living with conditions such as cerebral palsy
Individuals recovering from accidents who can no longer safely navigate stairs
Older adults who need safer access in and out of their homes

Key dates:

Priority application deadline: March 31, 2026
Final application deadline: May 1
Build season: April through July (based on volunteer availability)

Due to high demand, ramps cannot be guaranteed for every applicant. Those eligible are strongly encouraged to apply by the priority deadline for best consideration.

Apply here for a ramp

Rampathon is part of MBAKS’s year-round commitment to community stewardship, alongside other volunteer programs such as Planting a Better Tomorrow and Painting a Better Tomorrow.

West Coast Health Alliance endorses the 2026 AAP Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule

OLYMPIA – The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) endorses the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule, as do professional medical and health organizations representing more than one million health care providers, reflecting a broad consensus on the safety and benefits of the recommended immunizations.

The AAP issued the annual update to its Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for 2026, based on a thorough and deliberate review of medical evidence. These recommendations also continue to thoughtfully consider specific disease risks and health care delivery in the United States.

The 2026 AAP Immunization Schedule reflects the most current science-based safety and benefits of immunizations that protect individuals and communities from infectious diseases and have saved millions of lives in the United States. Annual updates are important to incorporate new evidence.

“The AAP’s evidence-based immunization schedule reflects decades of research demonstrating that vaccines are safe, effective, and lifesaving,” said Dennis Worsham, Washington State Secretary of Health.

“In Washington, our commitment to protecting children’s health through public health practices grounded in the best available science remains unwavering. We strongly encourage families to keep their children up to date on all AAP recommended vaccinations and to talk with their trusted healthcare providers if they have questions.”

The WCHA believes the AAP Immunization Schedule should continue to serve as the foundation for the immunizations routinely recommended by healthcare providers and guide conversations between providers and families.

The DOH website  is your source for a healthy dose of information. Get updates by following us on  social media.

Road repairs complete and 33rd Ave reopened

Updated Road Closure Notice: 33rd Ave Reopened in Lake Forest Park

Road work repairs on 33rd Ave have been complete. 33rd Ave was reopened on January 26, 2026.

Previously closed between 17140 33rd Ave NE and 7114 33rd Ave NE.

Your Vote, Your Voice: Register and Vote at the Shoreline Library February 5, 2026

Your Vote, Your Voice: Register and Vote

Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 2-6pm

Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155

For adults.

Exercise your right to vote! Learn about the upcoming February 2026 Special Election, register to vote, update your voter registration and get your ballot. King County Elections’ staff will provide assistance and resources to ensure a smooth and informed voting experience.

Registration not required.

Theater Review: The Seagull Takes Flight

The Seagull by Anton Chekhov

The UW School of Drama

New adaptation by Richard Nelson, Richard Pevear, and Larissa Pevear

Directed by Sebastián Bravo Montenegro

January 29 - February 8, 2026

Purchase Tickets here $10-$23

Floyd and Delores Jones Playhouse

4045 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105

The Seagull Takes Flight

Review by Kindle Carpp

Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull is a four-act drama set on a rural Russian estate, where artistic ambition, romantic longing, and quiet despair intertwine. The play centers on unrequited love, the desire for recognition, and the emotional costs of creative life, threads that weave together into a work that feels at once expansive and deeply personal.

Despite its large ensemble, The Seagull unfolds as an intimate story. The narrative orbits four central figures: Konstantin Gavrilovich Treplev, Nina Mikhailovna Zarechnaya, Irina Nikolayevna Arkadina, and Boris Alexeyevich Trigorin. Their relationships, artistic, romantic, and familial, form the emotional backbone of the play.

Konstantin, Arkadina’s only son, struggles to find his voice as a writer while living in the shadow of his celebrated mother and her accomplished lover. Arkadina is a renowned Russian actress whose confidence and vanity dominate every room she enters. Trigorin, her lover, is a successful writer of fiction, quiet, observant, and relentlessly focused on his own creative pursuits. Nina, a hopeful romantic, is in love with Konstantin and dreams of becoming an actress herself, yearning for both love and artistic fulfillment.

Surrounding them is a richly textured supporting cast: Sorin, Arkadina’s brother and owner of the estate; Yevgeny Sergeyevich Dorn, a charming local doctor and habitual object of affection; Masha, dressed perpetually in black and numbing her heartbreak with alcohol; Semyon Semyonovich Medvedenko, a poor schoolteacher devoted to Masha; Paulina Andryevna, trapped in a loveless marriage; and Ilya Afanasyevich Shamrayev, the long-suffering manager of Sorin’s estate. Even the household staff, Yakov, along with the cook and maid, contribute to the sense of a living, breathing world.

The play famously begins with a play-within-a-play, immediately drawing the audience into Chekhov’s layered examination of art and ego. For all its philosophical weight, the production does not always take itself too seriously. Masha’s dramatic histrionics lighten the mood, her exaggerated despair landing with sharp precision.

The overall acting is so strong that it is easy to be swept away by the story, carried along by the many intersecting storylines and character dynamics. Each character takes themselves utterly seriously, a choice that heightens both the humor and the tragedy.

Jaris Owens delivers a compelling antihero as Konstantin. His slow unraveling, first in the early acts and again later in the play, is profoundly haunting. There is a vulnerability to his performance that makes Konstantin’s anguish deeply affecting. Owens’s portrayal even draws unexpected sympathy toward Arkadina through the pain of their fractured relationship.

Marena Kleinpeter commands the stage as Arkadina, fully convincing as a famous actress accustomed to admiration. Her facial expressions alone communicate volumes; irritation, disdain, and wounded pride ripple through her every movement. She rarely needs words to assert her dominance. Kleinpete’s performance also elicits unexpected sympathy for Konstantin, particularly through Arkadina’s harsh dismissal of her own son.

Taylor McWilliams-Woods showcases remarkable range as Nina. She moves seamlessly from a naïve young woman, fearful yet devoted, to a flirtatious ingénue stepping into dangerous territory, and finally to a jaded, broken figure shaped by disappointment and loss. The span of life she embodies is vast, and she inhabits each stage with sincerity and emotional truth.

Sebastian Wang’s Trigorin is notably restrained. His performance is subtle and inward, never loud or grand, yet quietly revealing. He portrays a man who is gently narcissistic, absorbed almost entirely in himself and his single-minded pursuit of writing, and whose calm detachment proves quietly devastating.

The design elements beautifully support the production. Scenic designer Porter Lance creates a lush, atmospheric set that evokes the expansive grounds of a country estate. The foliage feels alive, and the use of the silver curtain, particularly in the final scene, is strikingly dramatic and emotionally resonant.

Lighting designer Marley Keith uses light on the curtain to suggest shifts in time of day with elegant simplicity, enhancing the mood without drawing attention away from the actors. Costume designer Nour Afifi’s work feels authentically late 19th century, grounding the production firmly in its historical setting. Sound designer Gideon Hall’s subtle use of water sounds throughout the outdoor scenes adds a quiet, immersive ambiance.

For a story filled with longing, frustration, and missed connections, this production of The Seagull feels remarkably alive, an intimate portrait of people reaching for love, art, and meaning, even as it slips just beyond their grasp.Like its namesake, The Seagull soars briefly, falters painfully, and remains unforgettable.

Seagull walking on Ronald Bog

Photo by Martin De Grazia
Ronald Bog Photo Blog

When the temperature dropped on Sunday January 25, 2026 shallow Ronald Bog froze over. The birds took it in stride, walking on the ice, and swimming in the open water.

Photo by Martin De Grazia
Ronald Bog Photo Blog

These guys are avian icebreakers, traveling through the open spaces in the ice like the Polar Star!

Kenmore Police advise community that robbers have been identified

Back in mid-November, we reported how a local gas station was robbed by three subjects believed to be armed, creating a great deal of angst in the neighborhood after a prolonged search.

After a lengthy and convoluted investigation by Kenmore's Detective, the three suspects have been identified.

Charges were forwarded to the KC Prosecutor's Office charging all three with Robbery. We anticipate warrants to eventually be issued for their arrests.

--Kenmore Police

Detective Craig Teschlog retires from LFP Police Department

Detective Craig Teschlog
LFP PD

Today we mark the final radio call of “out of service” for Detective Craig Teschlog, honoring more than 27 years of law-enforcement service, including nine years with Lake Forest Park Police Department.

Born in Edmonds and raised nearby, Craig comes from a family defined by service. His father served 20 years in the U.S. Army with three tours in Southeast Asia; his grandfather served 35 years with the FDNY; and his mother was an elementary school teacher.

Though his parents passed years ago, they lived to see Craig find his calling in law enforcement. He spent over half his life protecting communities, building cases, and supporting victims, from patrol to investigations, and through his work on the Major Crimes Task Force.

Beyond the cases, he’s been a mentor, a trainer with CJTC, and someone others could always count on.

His work will continue as he teaches the next generation of detectives. Craig may be making his final radio call as a police officer, but a new chapter awaits.

Congratulations, Detective Teschlog. Thank you for your service to our community.

--LFP PD

Jobs: Shoreline Fire fleet mechanic

Are you—or someone you know—looking to join a great team?

Shoreline Fire Department is now accepting applications for a Fleet Mechanic.

Learn more and apply today: www.shorelinefire.com

Help keep our fleet—and our community—moving safely.

History: Jet plane crashes in Shoreline

Photo courtesy MOHAI

By David Carlos

April 21, 1962. It was a beautiful spring Saturday in the Puget Sound area. Dry, partly sunny, with an expected high of 62 degrees.

It was the day the Seattle World’s Fair opened.

Around Noon, President John F. Kennedy officially started the celebration from his vacation home in Florida by pressing a telegraph key. Bells then rang throughout the Seattle Center grounds, followed by a U.S. Air Force squadron of 10 jets flying overhead.

The first fly-by went off without a hitch.

The second fly-by did not.

Example of an F-102 Delta-Dagger (source Airplanes Online)

One of the Convair F-102 Delta Dagger jets developed engine trouble at 1,500 feet. The pilot was not able to restart power, no matter how hard he tried.

Sensing little chance of a clean landing, he aimed the bird for Lake Washington.

He ejected safely. But in doing so, the plane jolted in a different direction.

It missed the lake by three miles and crashed near the border of Mountlake Terrace and Shoreline.

The plane hit an empty house owned by the Rutkas family.

Fortunately, they were vacationing in Canada at the time.

But the plane also hit a second home owned by Raymond and Lillian Smith. They were in two separate rooms. Both died instantly. They were 68 and 63, respectively.

Photos courtesy Worthpoint. com

Five other homes were damaged by fire and debris.

Because it was a Saturday, most neighborhood children were elsewhere — some at the movies, others hunting for Easter eggs at a church. As a result, none were caught in the disaster.

As emergency crews rushed in, military officials and investigators surrounded the area to begin piecing together evidence. No photographs were allowed for security reasons. But some people took snapshots anyway.

Neighbors described the loud noise, the heat, and the strewn wreckage of that day.

It was a day that unfolded far differently than anyone expected.

Drone photo by David Carlos 1/22/26

Epilogue:

The Rutkas were reimbursed $2,000-3,000 by the government. That’s around $32,000 today. They refused to sue the government but were thereafter emotionally devastated.
The pilot, 33-year-old Captain Joseph W. Wildt, was cleared of any wrongdoing. The official ruling was that his plane suffered mechanical failure. However, he was guilt-ridden over the deaths of the Smiths. Not much is known about his life afterward.
The crash location was casually referred to by the press as being in Mountlake Terrace. But it was actually in Shoreline, near the intersection of NE 200th St & 24th Ave NE.

Sources: History Link, MOHAI, KW3, Shoreline Area News, Aviation Safety, “Mountlake Terrace: A History of Four Square Miles” (Randal Gravelle).

Residential structure fire on Ballinger January 25, 2026

Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

Residential Structure Fire – Early Sunday Morning

Shoreline Fire was dispatched to a residential structure fire Sunday morning at approximately 3:20am.

Crews arrived to find a well-involved, single-story home. Occupants were already outside and confirmed that everyone was out of the residence.

Firefighters made a quick knockdown with an aggressive interior attack. There were no injuries to firefighters or occupants. Sadly, one dog was removed from the residence deceased.

King County Investigator determined it was an accidental fire caused by an electrical problem.

We’re grateful the residents made it out safely and remind residents to ensure there are working smoke alarms and to have an escape plan in place.

Coincidentally this was a block down the street from the home where a burglar was shot by a resident.

(see previous story)

Aurora Borealis over Puget Sound

Monday, January 26, 2026

Photo by Shixing Wen

Thanks to Parkwood resident and photographer Shixing Wen for this photo of the Northern Lights.

Aurora Borealis over Puget Sound (Brackett's Landing North, Edmonds, Washington, USA; 1/20/2026 at 8:53 PM)

Vivid aurora borealis curtains ripple across a star-speckled night sky, blending neon greens, yellows, purples, and blues.

Vertical light beams dance above a dark shoreline and calm water, while distant town lights glow faintly, grounding the ethereal spectacle in a quiet, earthly landscape under vast silence and slow-moving cosmic energy.

--Shixing Wen

Business Spotlight: Ballinger Thriftway: More Than a Grocery Store — Family, Community, and a Shoreline Staple

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

Ballinger Thriftway: More Than a Grocery Store — Family, Community, and a Shoreline Staple

For nearly three decades, Ballinger Thriftway has been much more than a place to pick up groceries, it’s been a cornerstone of the Shoreline community. Opened in 1996, this independent, family-owned store is deeply rooted in the Ballinger neighborhood, built on relationships, trust, and a genuine commitment to serving the people who walk through its doors every day. Owned and operated by Dave and Morgan, with Morgan’s husband Luke joining the team this year, Ballinger Thriftway is run like an extended family, one that truly knows and cares for its community.

Q & A with Morgan, owner and operator, Ballinger Thriftway
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: The store opened in 1996. Dave was with the company since it began and worked with the founder at other locations starting as a courtesy clerk in 1983. Dave and Morgan now own the store together, and Morgan’s husband Luke joined the team this year. We have weekly dinners together and really feel like family.

Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: The founder of Ballinger Thriftway retired in 2017 and gave Dave the opportunity to buy the store at the time. Dave raised his family just 5 minutes from the store. His children went to North City Elementary, Kellogg Middle School, and Shorecrest High School. Dave has been part of the Shoreline community for over 3 decades.

Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: Shoreline has a friendly, family-oriented feeling and people who care about our neighborhood. Being an independent, family-owned grocery store, we understand this feeling and we love our community. We enjoy seeing our everyday customers to catch up on life and we love meeting new people stopping by the store for the first time. Our community really comes together and helps support each other to make a real difference. This year our community was stronger than ever, it was really incredible to see.

Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: The Ballinger store was four walls and an empty space when we arrived in 1996. We opened the store in hopes of becoming part of the community and filling the need for a locally owned store.

Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: One thing many customers do not realize is we have always been a local, family-owned business. We have raised our families in Shoreline, so this community’s well-being could not mean more to us.

Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: One of our proudest accomplishments is having Shoreline Public Schools name us Community Partner of the Year in 2025. We work very hard to support the schools in our area and we are heavily involved with multiple local food banks. We work with Hopelink, Concern for Neighbors, and Annie’s Food Kitchen every week.

Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: We are ingrained in this community and we approach customer service in the old-fashioned way. We are always doing our best to put the customers first. We know our regulars by first name, we take pride in being able to watch their families grow up right in front of us.

We offer Senior Tuesdays where our seniors receive 10% off of their order. We value our customers and look forward to being a part of their day. One thing we are doing that is getting harder to find is bringing in products customers are looking for. As an independent locally owned store, we are able to make decisions in-store about which products we choose to carry to help support the needs of our customers.

Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: We work with the local food banks Concern for Neighbors, Hopelink, and Annie’s Community Kitchen every single week. We have a wine collaboration with Virtue Cellars in Edmonds — all proceeds of this wine get donated to the Angel Fund, which ensures every child can have a school lunch.

We’ve also started a whiskey raffle at the store with the saying “Do what you CAN.” We save up all of our allocated whiskeys and raffle them off twice a year. For every can donated, we hand out a raffle ticket. This year, with the help of our generous community, we collected 7 pallets of food to give back to our local food banks.

This holiday season, we donated 50 turkeys to the Kellogg School District for their yearly food drive to feed 60 families. Then Concern for Neighbors reached out to help feed 1,000 families with prepared deli sides. Our Deli Manager Karey stepped up in a big way to make this happen. Karey and Morgan, along with volunteers including Dave’s daughters, stayed overnight to package deli sides so everything could be delivered on time.

Dave’s daughters grew up playing sports and attending school in this community. We also love opening our doors to Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and team fundraisers to help make a positive impact.

Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: We will be hosting our Summer Open House, with around 40 vendors sampling and promoting their products in-store. It’s always such a fun turnout! We’ll be promoting it in-store and on our social media.

Our Wine Steward, Lenny, hosts a tasting every Friday. He updates his calendar monthly on Instagram, and you can also find his weekly tasting calendar on his desk in front of the department when you visit the store.

Connect with Ballinger Thriftway
20150 Ballinger Way NE, Shoreline, WA 98155
  206-368-7221
  Email: ballingerthriftway@gmail.com
  Website: https://www.ballingerthriftway.com/
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ballingerthriftway/
  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ballingermarketthriftway/

Destination Shoreline is brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, Real Estate Broker with Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline, Front Door Creative, Success Minded Leader, Bri Crow Creative, Phases Clinic, Become a Destination Shoreline Partner, learn more here

Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)

© Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP