Erratic driving complaint leads to collision and impaired driving charges

Nanaimo

2023-07-21 09:29 PDT

File # 2023-24689

A report of an erratic driver going southbound in the northbound lanes of the Nanaimo Parkway ended with a two-vehicle collision, serious injuries to both drivers and police pursuing impaired driving charges. The incident was reported at approximately 10 PM on Wednesday July 19, 2023, along the Nanaimo Parkway, near the Cedar Overpass.

Police, Fire and BCEHS responded. Officers were in the vicinity at the time of the collision as they were attempting to locate and stop the suspect vehicle, described as a Dodge Caravan. Unfortunately, the erratic driver was not located before colliding with a southbound Toyota Yaris, driven by a 24-year male. The driver of the Yaris sustained serious injuries and was transported to the Nanaimo hospital by BCEHS. Witnesses told police, the suspect driver was seen fleeing on foot shortly after the collision.

Police Dog Services were called to the scene and managed to track and locate the suspect driver a short distance away. Officers attended to his injuries and when stabilized, the suspect was turned over to BCEHS. The suspect, a 59-year Nanaimo man, was also transported to the Nanaimo hospital for treatment.

The crash scene closed the northbound lanes for several hours while investigators examined the scene and collected forensic evidence. Both vehicles were undriveable and later towed from the scene. While only preliminary, investigators believe alcohol, amongst other factors, was a contributor to the collision, said R/Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP

The investigation is continuing. Police are asking for any motorists with dash-cam video of the crash or prior driving of the suspect driver, to please contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

Released by:

Email: gary.obrien@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: nanaimo.rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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