Colwood crash sparks impaired driving investigation: RCMP

A crash that damaged a fence and a fire hydrant in a Colwood neighbourhood Tuesday morning is now at the centre of an impaired driving investigation, West Shore RCMP say.

Officers were called to the area of Royal Bay Drive and Promenade Crescent at around 10:42 a.m. after multiple witnesses reported a vehicle crashing in the area.

Police say the vehicle struck a fence before hitting a nearby fire hydrant, prompting several calls from concerned residents and drivers.

Officers searched the neighbourhood and found the suspect vehicle, a 2007 Ford Focus, a short distance away on Bunker Road.

RCMP say the 41-year-old driver was showing signs of drug impairment, leading officers to pursue an impaired driving investigation.

The driver was given a 24-hour driving prohibition under B.C.’s Motor Vehicle Act and the vehicle was impounded. Police also issued a violation ticket for allegedly failing to remain at the scene of a collision.

West Shore RCMP credited witnesses who reported the crashes.

“Their quick actions in reporting the collisions allowed police to locate the vehicle and suspect driver, preventing any further harm,” RCMP said in a statement.

Police are reminding the public to report dangerous driving.

“Find a safe location to pull over and call police to report it,” RCMP said.