Sunday morning at about 2:30am, a resident in the 3800 block of Loretta drive, contacted the Saanich Police communications center. The complaint was of an unwanted Toyota van that crashed through their yard and narrowly missed the residence.
The caller advised that at least one male was seen running from the van. Saanich Police K9 officer Cst. Jason WHITTAKER and partner Brock arrived at the scene to track the driver. The dog tracked away from the crash and into the Colquitz School property and out to the Galloping Goose trail near the Trans-Canada highway.
Once reaching the trail, an out of breath 16 year old male was located and was immediately arrested for leaving the scene of an accident. The driver made a spontaneous statement saying: ‘It’s my mom’s van!’ When questioned by officer, the young Saanich resident admitted to consuming a ’26er’ of alcohol but stated he could hold his liquor. Two breath tests revealed otherwise- two fails.
Officers then contacted the registered owner, the driver’s mother, and found that her son only had a learner license only! A violation ticket was issued by the investigator for Failing to Remain at the Scene of an Accident and for
Driving Contrary to the Licensing Restrictions. He also got a 90 day Immediate Roadside Prohibition.
When officers spoke to mom it was found the van had been taken without her permission- but she was not interested in charges. The van was then impounded by investigators.
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