Birch Bay man leads chase after allegedly stealing vehicle

A 34-year-old Birch Bay man remains in jail after allegedly stealing a vehicle from a Bellingham car dealership and leading sheriff’s deputies on a chase September 20.

Spencer Michael McKay, 34, was booked into Whatcom County Jail on September 20 and charged with attempting to elude a police vehicle and possession of a stolen vehicle, according to jail booking data and court records. He remained in jail as of October 2.

McKay reportedly stole a 2019 black Chevrolet Silverado 1500 from a car dealership on James Street in Bellingham, leaving his own vehicle at the dealership, according to the affidavit of probable cause (APC) filed in Whatcom County Superior Court.

A Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputy observed McKay driving at a high rate of speed in the stolen vehicle on Bay Road, according to the APC. As the WCSO deputy followed McKay to try to get him to stop, McKay allegedly drove into the oncoming lane of traffic and avoided spike strips placed to stop him. McKay fled to a home before surrendering to WCSO deputies.

McKay’s arraignment is scheduled for Friday, October 4.