Warning: This story contains graphic images and video that may be upsetting to some readers.
An alleged carjacking in Colwood that was caught on video shows a suspect throw his body into a taxi windshield, violently assault its driver and take off with the stolen cab, according to police.
The suspect, who police say was 18 at the time, has been arrested following the Saturday, April 15 incident.
West Shore RCMP say the suspect, who lives in Colwood, is now facing multiple charges including assault causing bodily harm, assault, assaulting a police officer, mischief to property under $5,000, and theft of a motor vehicle.
Dashcam video released by police Thursday shows a shocking first-hand view from inside the Blue Bird taxi cab.
In it, a shirtless man can be seen at the side of the road as the taxi drives down Sooke Road. As it approaches, he then launches himself at the vehicle’s windshield, elbow-first, smashing the glass and causing the driver to come to a stop.
In a matter of seconds the man rolls off the hood of the car, hits the ground, gets up and quickly storms toward the driver’s side door.
There are signs of a struggle off-camera as the man allegedly assaults the driver, pulls him from the taxi, and takes off with the stolen vehicle.
The taxi driver sustained significant injuries and was taken to the hospital. Police have since located and arrested the suspect.
“Carjackings like this are rare, as the suspect has been identified and arrested, we do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP spokesperson.
Police believe there were other witnesses who have not yet come forward, and released another video showing the violent incident from the perspective of one passerby.
A white vehicle was seen in two separate videos driving past the taxi as the incident took place but did not stop. Authorities have released the videos in an effort to identify and locate the driver and passengers of the white vehicle.
Rugby Canada has identified the 18-year-old suspect as a member of one of its development programs.
“We were unaware of any criminal charges until today,” said a spokesperson with the organization, adding the player has been released from the program and any other activities with Rugby Canada.
“We now consider this a matter for the justice system. Two players remain suspended as they proceed through due process as per our discipline and complaints policy,” said the spokesperson.
Police are urging the driver and passengers of the white car to come forward and speak to investigators by calling them at 250-474-2264.
Allegations against the suspect have not been tested or proven in court.
Correction: A previous version of this story included a quote from Rugby Canada identifying the 18-year-old suspect. His name has been removed to reflect that he was a youth offender at the time of the incident and has not been convicted.
Jeff Lawrence
Mary Griffin
