The driver of a white Tesla had was arrested Thursday afternoon after a head-on collision with an Oak Bay Police cruiser near UVic.
In a media release, Saanich Police said the incident started around 3:45 p.m., officers spotted a man driving in a “dangerous manner” near the intersection of Cedar Hill Cross Road at Shelbourne Street.
The vehicle was seen driving into oncoming traffic and failing to stop at traffic lights, so police attempted to stop the vehicle as it headed eastbound towards the University of Victoria.
Police continued to pursue the vehicle due to the threat to public safety and called for additional assistance, including officers from Oak Bay Police.
“Due to concern for public safety and everyone on the road this afternoon, police continued to pursue in an attempt to stop the driver as soon as it was possible to do so,” said Saanich police in a statement.
The Tesla ended up crashing head-on into an Oak Bay police cruiser that was assisting with the call, as well as two Saanich police vehicles, at the intersection of Gordon Head Road and Campus Crescent.
Once police had the vehicle stopped, the male driver of the car refused to exit the vehicle.
He was eventually removed from the car and taken into custody with help from the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team and police dogs.
Happy to report that our officer that was involved in the incident is doing well and is back at home. https://t.co/lree6CY8D8
— Oak Bay Police (@OakBayPolice) September 2, 2022
Police say several officers suffered minor injuries in the crash.
The man faces several recommended charges, including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and failing to stop for police. He was transported to hospital for treatment after the crash.
While the investigation is in its early stages, police believe the driver may have been impaired by drugs.
