The driver in the fatal hit-and-run in Courtenay on Thursday has been charged with murder and failing to stop, according to RCMP.
The hit-and-run occurred on Feb. 8 just before 11 p.m., at which point Comox Valley RCMP were called to the Comox Valley Parkway near Minto Road for an injured cyclist.
Paramedics and firefighters from the Cumberland Fire Department provided emergency medical assistance, but the cyclist died of his injuries after being brought to the hospital.
READ PREVIOUS: Man dies after fatal hit-and-run near Courtenay, police investigating
The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit conducted the investigation and was able to locate the suspect vehicle on Feb. 10.
READ PREVIOUS: Police locate suspect vehicle after fatal hit-and-run in Courtenay
Steven Squires of Cumberland, 45, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and fail to stop after accident causing death for the hit-and-run in Courtenay.
He remains in custody and no more information will be released by RCMP as the matter is before the courts.
In Canada’s Criminal Code, first-degree murder is when a murder is planned and deliberate; if the victim is a peace officer; if the murder occurs during a hijacking, sexual assault or kidnapping; if the murder occurs when trying to make the victim fear for their safety; if it is done during terrorist activity; if the murder is done as part of criminal organization; or if the death occurs while trying to intimidate the victim.
Second-degree murder is all murder that is not first-degree.
Laura Brougham
