Nelson Police stop chase of alleged stolen pickup truck
By Lone Sheep Publishing
Nelson Police are pursuing charges against a driver who sped off from officers at a high rate of speed Saturday (February 24, 2024) afternoon in the 800 block of Hume Lane.
Nelson Police said officers continue to gather evidence and anticipate charging a person known to police for Flight from Police Officer and Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle to the BC Prosecution Service.
“I am thankful that our officers and members of the public were not hurt during this incident,” said NPD Inspector Kris Rice.
“Our officers are working diligently in pursuing criminal charges against the driver.”
Nelson Police said the incident began when officers patrolling the area noticed a suspicious black Ram crew cab pickup backed into a parking spot that was occupied by a male driver and female passenger.
Nelson Police said that officers approached the vehicle and began speaking with the driver when he suddenly started the vehicle and sped off at a high rate of speed, colliding with the fence and curb of a neighbouring residence.
Nelson Police said the licence plate attached to the vehicle, which officers suspected to be stolen, did not belong to the Ram crew cab pickup.
“The officers were familiar with the driver and prudently did not pursue the vehicle,” the NPD media release said.
“Pursuing the vehicle would have put the alleged offender, the officers and the public at risk.”
“Just yesterday a 45-year-old woman was tragically killed by a vehicle fleeing from police in Edmonton, Alberta,” the media release added.
“There were several civilians in the lane at the time and luckily no one was injured.”
Nelson Police said the identity of the driver is not being released at this time.
“This incident also highlights NPD’s proactive policing initiative to target hot-spot areas of criminality within the city,” said Inspector Rice.
