WATCH: A suspect has been arrested following a hit-and-run in Port Alberni on Thursday. A car has also been found and impounded and a 54-year- old woman remains in the hospital with serious injuries. Kendall Hanson now on how police managed to track down the suspected driver so quickly.
There was little sign on Friday of a hit-and-run that unfolded in Port Alberni on Thursday.
A 54-year-old woman was struck and seriously injured while crossing at a marked crosswalk.
It’s believed the driver of the car that hit her even got out to see what had happened before fleeing the scene
“That’s disgusting,” said Port Alberni resident Faithe Brook.
“That just makes me angry and sad. Hopefully, the lady’s alright.”
First responders found the woman on the ground with serious injuries.
While BC Ambulance took her to the hospital, the search for the hit and run driver began.
“The vehicle involved in the collision had apparently continued on its way,” said Cpl. Jason Racz with Port Alberni RCMP.
“At that point, the police entered into an investigation of hit and run or fail to remain at the accident scene.”
A family member has identified the victim as Isobel Mickey. A niece says Mickey suffered a broken arm in two places, a broken pelvis and a shoulder that will need extensive surgery.
She could be seen in the top left corner of video surveillance from a nearby business. She was at the corner before walking across. The impact is out of view but the suspect vehicle doesn’t appear to slow down. This video was a helpful piece, along with tips from people, in identifying the driver.
Investigators were soon able to track down the suspect at his home. Police say he is elderly.
“An arrest was made later on in the evening and the vehicle was seized for any subsequent forensic examination,” said Cpl. Racz.
The Crown prosecutor will now determine what charges the man might face.
Meanwhile, the victim is now in hospital in Nanaimo where she’s expected to undergo lengthy surgery tonight.
Her family has set up a GoFundMe page.
Kendall Hanson
