On August 3, 2026, a Cowlitz County Superior Court jury found Kenny Madarash guilty of attempting to elude a pursuing police vehicle with an endangerment enhancement and theft in the third degree.  At trial, the jury heard evidence that Madarash and a female exited the Wal-Mart store in Woodland without paying for 14 items and entered a gray Ford Escape. Shortly after the theft, Woodland police saw Madarash driving the Ford on southbound I-5. In a marked patrol vehicle, a Woodland police officer pursued Madarash with his overhead emergency lights and siren activated. While fleeing from the officer, Madarash traveled over 100 miles per hour and drove erratically. Due to the danger presented to other drivers, the Woodland police called off the pursuit.  

After reviewing the Woodland Police Department’s investigation, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged Madarash with attempting to elude a pursuing police officer while endangering other drivers and theft in the third degree.   The jury found Madarash guilty after a one-day jury trial.

We appreciate the work of the Woodland Police Department who investigated this matter. The State was represented by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Oleg Balabon.

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