A senior is in critical condition and two police officers were injured after a vehicle wreaked havoc in downtown Vancouver early Friday morning.
In a release, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) said a male driver allegedly rammed several vehicles, sped through a section of Nelson Park, and intentionally drove along a sidewalk in Vancouver’s West End.
“The senior remains in hospital in critical condition,” said the department. “The VPD officers are also in hospital being treated for their injuries.”
Police were notified of the incident around 5:30am Friday morning after a vehicle was observed “driving erratically” in the area of Comox and Broughton streets. The vehicle struck numerous objects, including the Nelson Park dog area.
“Several witnesses nearby had to scramble to get out of the way of the suspect’s vehicle.”
The senior, who was riding a motorized scooter at the time, was unable to get out of the driver’s way.
VPD
VPD
The suspect was taken into custody after he rammed a police vehicle responding to the scene. The police cruiser was destroyed in the crash, and suspect’s vehicle flipped.
“The suspect was trapped inside the vehicle and arrested near Comox and Bute streets. Multiple ambulances responded along with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services who were able to free the man from the wreckage.”
VPD
VPD
Police add that mental health and drug use issues are possible factors in this incident.
“The Major Crimes Unit is investigating. The motive remains unclear at this time. The VPD will update the public as more information becomes available.”
Comox Street between Thurlow and Bute remains closed while the investigation continues.
More local news:
- Fight in Surrey sends six people to hospital
- VPD tracks down “furry suspect” roaming East Vancouver streets (VIDEO)