Driver of Tesla crashes into Oak Bay Police vehicle near UVic

The driver of a Tesla had a head-on collision with an Oak Bay Police cruiser near UVic this afternoon, according to Saanich Police.

Around 3:45 p.m., a man driving a Tesla was allegedly spotted driving in a dangerous manner in the area of Cedar Hill Cross Road at Shelbourne Street, heading eastbound towards the University of Victoria. Police attempted to stop the vehicle.

The driver then reportedly drove into oncoming traffic, so police continued to pursue due to the threat to public safety. Saanich Police also called for additional assistance and officers from Oak Bay Police responded.

The Tesla crashed into two Saanich Police vehicles and crashed head-on into an Oak Bay Police vehicle near Campus Crescent, on the west side of the university.

The Oak Bay Police officer and Saanich Police officers suffered minor injuries, and the air bags in the police cruiser deployed.

The Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team engaged with the driver of the Tesla and he refused to comply with directions of police officers.

A witness tells CHEK News they saw police use a bean bag gun on the driver.

It is now being investigated whether the driver was under the influence, and the driver was taken to hospital for his injuries. Saanich Police say while the investigation is still early, it is suspected the driver was impaired by drugs.

Police are investigating charges of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and failing to stop for police in this incident.

With files from CHEK’s Joe Perkins

Photo courtesy Howie AllanPhoto courtesy Howie AllanCHEK NewsCHEK NewsCHEK NewsCHEK News

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