The driver of a Toyota Yaris that was struck by a suspected impaired driver going the wrong way on the Nanaimo Parkway has died from their injuries, according to Nanaimo RCMP.
The dangerous incident happened at around 10 p.m. on July 19 near the Cedar Overpass.
Police rushed to the area prior to the crash to try and locate the suspect vehicle, described as Dodge Caravan, after reports of an erratic driver but weren’t able to locate it.
The wrong-way driver collided with a Toyota Yaris, causing significant injuries to the vehicle’s 24-year-old driver who had to be rushed to hospital. On July 21, Nanaimo RCMP said the driver died from their injuries.
“Our sincere thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” said R/Const. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP in a news release.
The 24-year-old driver who died has been identified as Reid Davidson by Nanaimo United FC.
“Reid has been a huge part of our club for several years where he brought genuine warmth and care as a valued member of staff as well as being a fierce competitor on the field,” the team said on Facebook. “One of the kindest and most selfless people you could ever wish to meet has left us and we will forever miss him in our lives.”
According to witnesses, the suspect driver was seen fleeing the scene on foot shortly after the crash.
Police Dog Services were called to the scene and located the suspect a short distance away.
The 59-year-old Nanaimo man also had to be taken to hospital and remains in hospital to treat his injuries.
“While only preliminary, investigators believe alcohol, amongst other factors, was a contributor to the collision,” said O’Brien.
The investigation is ongoing and impaired driving and other charges are pending.
The crash closed the northbound lanes of the Nanaimo Parkway for several hours.
Both vehicles were badly damaged and had to be towed from the scene.
Police are now asking any motorists who might have been in the area of the collision and have dash-cam video of the crash, or Dodge Caravan driving the wrong way on the highway before the incident, to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
Editor’s note: Nanaimo RCMP previously stated the driver of the Toyota Yaris was 23 years old. It was later clarified the driver was 24. The story has been updated to reflect this.
Tess van Straaten
