Police applaud civilian assistance in tragic car crash
By Castlegar Source
On April 13, at approximately 10:25 pm, Castlegar RCMP, along with the Robson and Castlegar Fire departments, responded to the 1700 block of Pass Creek Road in response to a vehicle that had left the road, rolled, and was now upside down in the creek.
Local residents had gone to the vehicle to assist the driver and lone occupant who was trapped in the vehicle and help him hold his head above the water and offer comfort until he could be rescued. Police officers entered the water as well, and were able to cut the male’s seatbelt, and fire fighters used the Jaws of Life hand tools to cut him out of the truck.
The male, a 46-year-old Castlegar man, was taken to Trail hospital with serious injuries and remains in the intensive care unit. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening at this point.
Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in this accident, and the investigation continues.
Police are asking any witnesses, or any other persons that assisted in this rescue whom have not been spoken to by Police as of yet to contact the Castlegar RCMP detachment at (250) 365-7221.
Police would also like to thank those bystanders who, without hesitation, went into the very frigid creek to assist this victim pending the arrival of the Police and Fire departments. Their actions very well may have saved this man’s life.
