Beachgoers Experience A Near Miss With Drunk Driver

On January 25, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Dispatch Center began receiving multiple calls from concerned parties regarding a vehicle driving at a high rate of speed on the beach at D-River. The driver departed southbound at a high rate of speed prior to police arrival. At the time, numerous families were enjoying bonfires in the area and witnesses reported itthe driver nearly missing people. The driver was also spinning “cookies” along the beach. In addition to this area being closed to vehicle traffic, this was an obvious safety concern.

A short time later, members of the Lincoln City Police Department located the occupied SUV parked just south of Canyon Drive Beach Access. When they approached the vehicle, the driver began driving erratically and a half-full bottle of Vodka fell out of the open trunk onto the beach. The driver eventually stopped and police detained him. He was identified as Artem A. Savenko of Beaverton, Oregon. Savenko was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Reckless Driving, and Recklessly Endangering Another Person (the multiple beachgoers who had been put in danger). Savenko’s vehicle was impounded and he was transported to the Lincoln County Jail to be lodged.

Lincoln City Police emphasize that Lincoln City’s beaches are here for public enjoyment; however, when drivers put people in danger, our Officers will investigate and enforce the law. Luckily nobody was hurt during this incident, but it is a reminder of the danger that intoxicated drivers pose to the public. Alcohol impairs portions of the brain associated with decision-making and judgement. Be safe and drive sober.