The Surrey RCMP Gang Enforcement Team has arrested a 34-year-old man “known to police” following a traffic crash near 168th Street and 88th Avenue on Wednesday night.
Corporal Joanie Sidhu said an SGET officer was trying to stop a Mercedes C230 that took off then ran a red light. This was shortly after 7 p.m.
“The officer did not pursue the vehicle and pulled over roadside,” she said.
Sidhu said the Mercedes then collided with another motorist and the Mercedes driver subsequently ran into a forest. The other driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital.
A police dog helped catch the driver who ran off. Sidhu said he was wearing a replica handgun in a holster. He was expected to appear in Surrey provincial court Thursday and police have recommended charges related to obstruction, dangerous operation of a vehicle, flight from police, driving while prohibited and breaching a court order. His name has not yet been released.
Inspector Mike Hall, Surrey RCMP Proactive Enforcement Officer, said the suspect’s “reckless” behaviour posed a “considerable risk” to the public and police. “It is fortunate that no one was seriously injured as a result of the man’s selfish behaviour,” Hall said.
A freelance photographer at the scene said the man was treated by paramedics for dog bites, inside an ambulance.
tom.zytaruk@surreynowleader.com
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram and follow Tom on Twitter