Impaired driver causes significant damage in Prince Rupert

 An impaired driver crashed his vehicle which resulted in significant damage to property in a residential neighbourhood yesterday.

On April 5, 2023 at approximately 3 am, the Prince Rupert RCMP was informed of a motor vehicle incident on the corner of Hays Cove Ave and Conrad St in Prince Rupert. Police attended the location promptly and observed significant damage caused to a retaining wall, a house, a stop sign, a hydro pole and a parked car, as well as the suspect's vehicle.

With the help of witnesses on site, police quickly identified the suspect as a 45-year-old man who attempted to leave the scene of the incident. Members engaged with the man and suspected his ability to drive had been impaired by alcohol. This was confirmed later by obtaining breath samples which resulted in over twice the Criminal Code limit of 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.

Police informed Prince Rupert Public Works and BC Hydro and requested their attendance in order to make sure the area was safe for the public.

"Once again, an impaired driver caused a significant collision in the city. The damage is only material and thankfully no one was hurt, but someone could have been." said Cst. Gabriel Gravel, Media Relations Officer with the Prince Rupert RCMP. "Just last month, an impaired driver struck a pedestrian on McBride St and caused him life-threatening injuries. This is preventable; if you're impaired, make other arrangements."

While the legal limit in Canada according to the Criminal Code is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, most provinces have additional regulations. In British Columbia, drivers can face legal consequences up to including a $500 fine, a 30-day vehicle impoundment and a 90-day driving prohibition for driving with as little as 51mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.

The 45-year-old man is now accused of Operating a conveyance while impaired and Failing to remain at the scene of an accident. He was released from police custody later in the night and on a first court appearance at a later date. The charges will be recommended to the BC Prosecution Service.