Comox-based Search and Rescue Technicians (SAR TECH) were called in for their technical support after a suspect is said to have fled from an attempted traffic stop in Williams Lake.
On Dec. 28, local RCMP were responding to multiple complaints of a suspected drunk driver in and around the city.
When RCMP officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, police said the suspect vehicle fled.
They said the man later crashed the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. In the process of attempting to evade police, the suspect then fell down a steep embankment, sustaining lower body injuries in the process.
Staff Sgt. Brad McKinnon, acting officer in charge at the Williams Lake RCMP detachment, said police, fire and ambulance all responded, but due to the suspect’s location down an embankment and on a steep cliffside, search and rescue was activated.
“The rescue was very technical and dangerous in nature and also resulted in a call to CFB (Canadian Forces Base) Comox for assistance from their SAR TECH group,” said McKinnon, in his report to the Tribune.
He said alcohol and speed are believed to be contributing factors to the incident.
“The male suspect was eventually rescued and transported to hospital for medical attention,” said McKinnon.
He remains under investigation for impaired driving and will be required to attend court at a future date. McKinnon said no further details will be released while the matter remains under investigation.
He also reminded the public not to drive when consuming alcohol or drugs.
“Plan ahead, have a designated driver, utilize Operation Red Nose, call a taxi, but don’t drive impaired,” advised McKinnon, who said the incident was a significant strain on first responder resources. He thanked the Williams Lake Fire Department, BC Emergency Health Services, Central Cariboo Search and Rescue and CFB Comox for their support and assistance during the incident.
Editor’s note: This story was updated the adjust the headline for clarity.