Wrong-Way Drunk Driver Arrested in Baker City

Oregon State Police apprehend 26-year-old New Mexico man driving under the influence on I-84.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 26-year-old man from New Mexico was arrested by the Oregon State Police last Friday for driving the wrong way on I-84 near Baker City while intoxicated. The incident was reported around 11:23 p.m., with the driver found in a Maverick parking lot. After field sobriety tests, the driver was arrested and taken to the Baker County Jail, where a search warrant was obtained and a blood alcohol content of 0.19% was recorded.

Why it matters

Drunk driving incidents pose a serious threat to public safety on Oregon's highways. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by state police to apprehend impaired drivers and remove them from the roads before they can cause harm to themselves or others.

The details

According to the Oregon State Police press log, the 26-year-old driver, identified as Ukiah Leighton Smith of Kirtland, New Mexico, was charged with DUII Intoxicants, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering Person, Carry Concealed Weapon, No Operator's License, and Open Container of Alcohol. The incident occurred near Milepost 306 on I-84 westbound, just south of Baker City.

  • The incident was initially reported at 11:23 p.m. on Friday, February 20.
  • The driver was arrested and taken to the Baker County Jail, where a search warrant was obtained and a blood alcohol content of 0.19% was recorded.

The players

Ukiah Leighton Smith

A 26-year-old man from Kirtland, New Mexico, who was arrested for driving the wrong way on I-84 while intoxicated.

Oregon State Police

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the wrong-way drunk driver.

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What they’re saying

“The driver wanted to speak with an attorney and was arrested.”

— Oregon State Police (elkhornmediagroup.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine the driver's bail and whether he will be allowed to be released pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the consequences of driving under the influence. It highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to keep Oregon's roads safe for all travelers.