‘Game Over’: Cops Stop Motorist for Alleged ‘Mario Kart Style Driving’ on Highway

In a bizarre traffic stop that could have come straight from a Nintendo console, police in Washington state pulled over a motorist over the weekend for what they described as “Mario Kart style driving” on a major interstate.

According to the Washington State Patrol, the incident occurred late Saturday night on I-5 near Tacoma. Authorities say the suspect was weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds, tailgating, and making erratic lane changes — reminiscent of the frenetic racing seen in the popular Mario Kart video game series.

In a post shared to social media, troopers revealed that the driver, a 27-year-old male from Seattle, was reportedly mimicking racing maneuvers such as “drifting” through curves and aggressively “boosting” past other vehicles. Officers noted he was also observed throwing banana peels out of the car window, though it remains unclear whether this was a deliberate joke or a coincidental littering offense.

Troopers initiated a pursuit and were able to safely bring the vehicle to a stop without injury. The suspect was arrested for reckless driving and could face additional charges related to endangerment and littering. No injuries or property damage were reported.

“Not a Game,” Say Authorities

“This kind of behavior puts lives at serious risk,” said Sgt. Darren Wright of the Washington State Patrol. “It’s one thing to enjoy video games, but highways are not racetracks. Real life doesn’t give you extra lives or reset buttons.”

While the incident might bring a chuckle to fans of the iconic game franchise, officers are using the case to remind the public about the dangers of aggressive and distracted driving. In recent years, law enforcement agencies have increasingly used pop culture references to draw attention to road safety—sometimes blending humor with serious warnings.

Legal Fallout and Public Reaction

The suspect’s identity has not yet been released, pending arraignment. If convicted, he could face fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.

Online, reactions ranged from disbelief to amusement. “At least he didn’t drop a blue shell,” one commenter joked, referencing the notorious in-game item used to sabotage race leaders.

The Washington State Patrol said it will continue monitoring for reckless behavior and encouraged citizens to report dangerous drivers immediately by calling 911.