THE Surrey RCMP Gang Enforcement Team (SGET) on Wednesday night arrested a man who is known to police after a foot pursuit following a collision in Guildford.

Shortly after 7 p.m. on February 17, an SGET officer conducting a pro-active patrol attempted to stop a vehicle near 168 Street and 88 Avenue. The vehicle, a Mercedes C230, failed to stop for police and drove away erratically, running a red light. The officer did not pursue the vehicle and pulled over to the side of the road. The Mercedes then collided with another motorist. The driver of the Mercedes subsequently ran from the vehicle and into a nearby forested area. The driver of the other vehicle sustained minor injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

The Integrated Lower Mainland Police Dog Services unit was called out to assist with the search. At approximately 7:30 p.m., the man, who was found to be wearing a holster with a handgun, was located and apprehended. Police later determined the handgun was a replica.

The 34-year-old man was taken to an area hospital for assessment prior to being held in custody. He was to attend court for proposed charges related to obstruction, dangerous operation of a vehicle, flight from police, drive while prohibited, and breach charges.

“The reckless behaviour displayed by this driver posed a considerable risk to the public and the responding officers,” said Inspector Mike Hall, Surrey RCMP Proactive Enforcement Officer. “It is fortunate that no one was seriously injured as a result the man’s selfish behaviour.”

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers, if they wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.