Lane County, OR – Impaired driving arrests are already stacking up in Lane County as deputies warn motorists to start 2026 safely and avoid getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.
According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, deputies made multiple DUI arrests between Wednesday, January 1, and Saturday, January 4, despite the agency not having regular funding for a dedicated traffic enforcement or DUI team.
On Wednesday at about 9 p.m., a deputy observed a red-light violation on Main Street in Springfield. The vehicle failed to stop initially and was later contacted in Eugene. Police identified the driver as Ryan Richard Like, 47, of Eugene, who allegedly showed signs of impairment. After further investigation, Like was arrested for DUI.
On Friday around 9 p.m., deputies responded to a report of a vehicle rolled onto its side in the 3400 block of Emerald Way, east of Springfield. The driver, Jake Ryan Martinez, 31, of Springfield, was located nearby and allegedly showed signs of impairment. Martinez was arrested for DUI.
Early Saturday morning at 2 a.m., deputies responded to a crash in a parking lot on Holbrook Lane in Creswell. Authorities contacted Austin Mychal Lamb, 30, of Creswell, who allegedly displayed signs of impairment and was arrested for DUI.
Later that day at 5 p.m., deputies assisted Springfield Police with a vehicle that crashed into a gate at a residence on Jasper Road near Clearwater Lane. The driver, Selah Mark Knapp, 38, of Springfield, was allegedly impaired and had minor injuries. Knapp was arrested for DUII and Reckless Driving. According to deputies, Knapp became uncooperative and allegedly spit blood on deputies during booking, leading to additional Aggravated Harassment charges.
The Sheriff’s Office urged drivers to plan ahead, use sober drivers, and wear seatbelts, reminding residents: “Drive safe in 2026 — or better yet, get a ride.”
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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