Officers injured in arrest of driver involved in North Vancouver hit-and-run

Photo: RCMP

NORTH Vancouver RCMP are seeking dash cam and CCTV to advance their investigation of a reported hit-and-run and alleged subsequent assault on two officers.

On Wednesday, April 17 at approximately 1 a.m. police were alerted to a collision in the 2300-block of Dollarton Highway. Witnesses reported seeing a white Dodge Ram pickup strike a tree and the driver fleeing from the scene. As officers arrived at the collision, other officers attended the registered owner’s address in an effort to intercept the driver.

While at the residence, officers noted the passenger of an arriving vehicle matched the description of the hit-and-run driver. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the white sedan, but the passenger exited the vehicle, attempted to flee and reportedly resisted arrest. As the passenger continued to resist arrest, another man allegedly exited a nearby residence and tackled an officer.

A brief struggle ensued as officers attempted to gain control of the scene, during which two officers were allegedly assaulted and injured.

The driver of the white sedan was issued an Immediate Roadside Prohibition for refusing to provide a breath sample as officers suspected that he was driving while impaired. The hit-and-run driver faces potential charges in relation to failing to remain at the scene of an accident and resisting arrest.

The third man is being investigated for assaulting a police officer and obstruction.

“The officers suffered serious, non-life-threatening injuries, but are now recovering,” said Constable Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officers for North Vancouver RCMP. “Police are continuing to investigate the hit-and-run component of the investigation.”

Anyone with dash cam who drove on Dollarton Highway in the early morning hours of April 17 is asked to call the North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311 and quote file 24-7319.