The laboratory processes evidence in criminal cases and is currently processing more than 15,700 cases.
SEATTLE — Washington State Patrol officials say a backlog in toxicology testing is delaying impaired driving investigations across the state while forensic scientists work overtime to keep up.
The lab, which processes evidence in criminal cases, is currently processing more than 15,700 cases, well exceeding its goal of providing results within 60 to 90 days.
Although about 65% of the laboratory’s work is related to damage investigation, the backlog has wide-ranging implications. State Patrol spokesman Chris Loftis said delays could have serious legal consequences.
“Some of these cases have a statute of limitations; after 24 months, they can be dismissed,” he said.
While the backlog has improved slightly from its peak of 17,100 cases in August 2025, turnaround times are still much longer than expected.
“Currently, for alcohol, it’s 10 months. For multiple drugs or any combination of drug interactions, it’s up to 20 months,” Loftis said.
For families waiting for results, these delays can be devastating.
Alyssa Coriell has been waiting for answers since her 19-year-old sister Ashley O’Neal was killed in a car accident in December 2023. Investigators said the driver, Robert Trevino, was traveling twice the speed limit when the crash occurred. Blood samples taken at the scene were sent to a state laboratory, but results confirming the presence of methamphetamine and fentanyl in his system were not returned to Renton police until February 2026. Trevino was subsequently arrested.
Authorities said the delays were beyond their control.
“Unfortunately, this is something we have no control over. As far as timing, two years is something none of us wanted to happen,” said Detective Kevin Lane.
State officials acknowledged the emotional toll on the victims’ families.
“It’s hard to say please be patient because when you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, the grief is immediate,” Loftis said.
The need for toxicology testing has increased over time, in part due to broader drug use trends. Loftis pointed to the 2012 legalization of marijuana as one of the factors that expanded the scope of substances that need to be analyzed.
“This adds a lot of substances to people’s systems that we have to test for,” he said.
To address the issue, the state has increased resources, including opening a new laboratory in Federal Way in 2024. The state currently employs 21 scientists, with one vacancy yet to be filled. Officials say hiring and fully training staff will help reduce delays.
“We’ve seen progress in the two years since the new lab opened. Over the next few years, we’ll see continued progress. By the end of this decade, we’ll be where we need to be,” Loftis said.
The State Patrol is targeting a 60- to 90-day turnaround time for toxicology results to be restored by the end of 2029.
