A Castlegar-bound truck was pulled over en route after witnesses reported a hit and run on the 1000 block of Front Street on Saturday morning. Nelson police were able to locate and identify the vehicle, and police determined the 31-year-driver was under the influence of prescription medication that causes drowsiness.
“He shouldn’t have been driving. He sideswiped a truck on the 1000-block, clipped the mirror of a parked pick-up, and witnesses made a 9-1-1 call,” Sgt. Dino Falcone told the Star.
“We received the call at about a quarter to 8 a.m., and members were able to locate the vehicle within 20 minutes. We pulled the truck over and determined the driver was impaired by drug.”
Though the truck was heading out of their jurisdiction, the police opted to follow the vehicle, ultimately pulling it over close to Pacific Insight’s electronics factory on Highway 3A.
“Luckily we got the guy. Our members did a really good job, as there could’ve been a tragic ending to that file if we hadn’t stopped him.”
The driver received a 24-hour suspension, as well as being issued “hefty” fines for taking undue care and leaving the scene of an accident, said Falcone.
“Many prescription medicines and over-the-counter drugs can leave you impaired under the Criminal Code. There are of course some instances where you need to take prescribed medications (such as certain medical conditions like diabetes or epilepsy),” reads a police press release.
“Make sure you read the labels carefully and check with your doctor or pharmacist so you’re safe to drive while taking certain drugs.”
Airport fencing smashed
On Sunday another drive smashed through the fencing around the Nelson airport at approximately 2:45 a.m.
“The driver appeared to have then driven around the airport, looking for a way out but came back to the section of damaged fence and exited that way,” reads the release.
“Nelson Police Department members attended and ensured none of the planes were damaged. A City crew was called to secure the fence. The incident was caught on video and the Nelson Police Department is investigating.”
The Star has requested a copy of the footage.
Rosemont assault
The assailant responsible for the July 8 attack in Rosemont will appear in court on Aug. 31, where it will be decided whether or not he’ll be held criminally responsible for his actions. He is being kept long-term at Colony Farms, an institution on the coast, according to Falcone.
Ward Street suspect to make court appearance
The man responsible for a multi-hour standoff on Ward Street on June 3 may appear in court on Sept. 1 for a date to be set for his trial.
Falcone said a mental health and psychiatric evaluation has been completed, and the suspect has pled not guilty.
