Two major crashes mar local highways Wednesday
By Castlegar Source
Two men ended up being arrested after two separate highway accidents yesterday afternoon, according to RCMP Sgt. Laurel Mathew.
She said the first crash happened at roughly 2:35 p.m. on Highway 3A and Ootischenia Road.
“A vehicle being driven by a 45-year-old Castlegar man was making a left-hand turn onto Ootischenia road when he was struck by a vehicle going straight on Hwy 3A,” she said. “Neither driver suffered injuries in the crash. Charges under the Motor Vehicle Act are pending against the driver of the turning vehicle for failing to yield to an oncoming vehicle.”
She added the driver of the second vehicle was arrested for Obstruction when he failed to identify himself and obey police commands.
“He was later released with no charges once necessary information was obtained.”
The second collision happened at roughly 3:30 p.m. on Hwy 3, about 10 kilometres west of the city.
“The driver, and lone occupant, of a Honda Prelude was eastbound on Hwy 3 when he crossed the centre line into the oncoming traffic,” Mathew said. “An Acura, occupied by a 30-year-old female driver from Castlegar, a female passenger, and three-year-old twins, swerved left to try to avoid the Honda. The driver of the Honda then re-corrected, and struck the Acura head on.
“The driver of the Acura was taken to the hospital with possible leg and neck injuries. One of the children had a minor cut on their chin, but no other injuries were reported.
“The driver of the Honda had to be extricated from his vehicle, and was also taken to hospital suffering from broken bones and possible internal injuries. None of the injuries are believed to be life threatening.
“The driver of the Honda, a 37-year-old Slocan man, is facing numerous charges under the Motor Vehicle Act which include no driver’s licence, no insurance, and misuse of plates.
“Police are pursuing charges under the Criminal Code which include, three counts of breaching Probation for not having an interlock device in his car, consuming alcohol contrary to court conditions, and not to drive unless going to or from work. Police are also considering charges for impaired driving causing bodily harm and dangerous driving.
“If anyone witnessed this incident, please contact West Kootenay IRSU, Cst Enkirch at (250)354-5134, the Castlegar RCMP, or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222 TIPS (7477).
