Vancouver Police investigate hit-and-run as pedestrian clings to life

VANCOUVER Police are trying to identify the driver and find the vehicle involved in a serious hit-and-run collision that took place early Thursday morning near Hastings and Columbia streets.

Shortly before 2 a.m. on October 29, a vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed west on Hastings Street near Main Street. As the vehicle approached Columbia Street, the driver crossed the centre line into the oncoming eastbound traffic and struck a pedestrian in the east crosswalk. The driver did not stop.

The pedestrian, a 47-year-old man from Vancouver, was taken to hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries. He is in the Intensive Care Unit.

Police believe the vehicle involved is a grey, 1992 to 1998 3-series BMW. It will have damage near the front bumper and driver’s side turn signal.

“This driver will be making attempts to hide their vehicle,” said Constable Tania Visintin. “If you know someone who owns a car like this, and they are suddenly no longer driving it or parking in their usual spot, please contact police.”

Investigators are asking the public for any information, or for anyone who may have dashcam footage in the area of Hastings and Columbia streets between 1 and 3 a.m. to contact the VPD Collision Investigation Unit at 604-717-3012.