Investigation ongoing after driver on Highway 97 crashed and ran

The B.C. Highway Patrol (BCHP) is investigating after a driver was caught on video weaving in and out of traffic, narrowly avoiding cars and a semi, before slamming into a rock face.

The collision happened just before 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 26. In a media release, BCHP said its officers were doing routine speed enforcement near Brent Rd. in Peachland at the time.

The officer saw the southbound SUV speeding and signaled for the driver to stop, but they didn’t. The officer gave chase, but the SUV had pulled ahead.

A short time later, the officer arrived at the collision. The driver, according to the release, tried to run, but was quickly caught.

The entire ordeal was captured on video, and widely circulated online. The initial video has over 267,000 views.

The driver, who is known to police, was taken to hospital, and treated for their injuries.

The BCHP continue to investigate. The driver is potentially facing a lengthy list of charges. West Kelowna RCMP are assisting in the investigation.

The case was referred to the Independent Investigations Office for B.C. for review. On Nov. 29, the office concluded the injuries did not meet the threshold for further review and will not be investigating.

Anyone with information is asked to contact BCHP in Kelowna at 250-491-5354.