Semi driver arrested following destructive ‘criminal flight’

EDMONTON – Charges are pending against a 46-year-old semi-truck driver accused of leaving behind a trail of destruction Tuesday morning.

The trouble started around 6 a.m., when the semi failed to clear the overpass just before the High Level Bridge. While backing up, the truck allegedly knocked down a traffic light.

An officer in the area got out of his vehicle to direct the semi when police say it fled down 97 Avenue, travelling against traffic.

Police then began their pursuit, following the vehicle down 109 Street.

They say the semi:

• backed onto a meridian, causing significant damage to a sidewalk.
• ran two red lights.
• collided with a pick-up truck after turning right onto Jasper Avenue from 109 Street’s far left lane.

Police decided to abandon their pursuit at that moment “for the safety of citizens and other traffic around for the morning commute,” said police spokesperson Noreen Remtulla.

The “erratic” vehicle was spotted travelling northeast to Wayne Gretzky Drive, then around Connors Road, and back to the downtown area.

A spike belt was finally deployed in the area of Jasper Avenue and 82 Street, and the 46-year-old driver was arrested.

An investigation into the incident is still underway.