A severe multi-vehicle collision in southeast Calgary on Thursday morning resulted in four individuals being critically injured, according to law enforcement. The accident is believed to have been triggered by a suspect fleeing from a robbery scene.
Authorities responded to an incident at a Pharmasave on Millrise Boulevard just before 9:30 a.m. where it is believed a criminal had assaulted a pharmacist before escaping in a stolen car. Upon identifying the vehicle, police attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused and sped off.
Police decided to call off the chase in the interest of public safety. Despite this, the suspect continued to drive recklessly, ultimately running a red light at the intersection of McLeod Trail and Southland Drive, leading to a catastrophic collision.
Paul Donaldson, a victim of the crash, recounted the terrifying experience. He and his wife were waiting at a red light, preparing to turn onto Southland Drive, when they saw a van speed through a red light and collide with another car. The impact of the crash was so forceful that Donaldson believes the other car didn’t touch the ground until it hit their vehicle.
Calgary Fire Department Battalion Chief Scott Cowan mentioned that emergency services were dispatched to the crash site shortly before 10 a.m. Four individuals, including a child, two teenagers, and an adult, were rushed to the hospital. Calgary Police later confirmed that all four were in critical, life-threatening condition.
Donaldson managed to escape the accident with minor injuries, but he believes others weren’t as lucky. Following the crash, he witnessed a man being taken into police custody. The Calgary Police Service has confirmed that the suspect is in custody and charges are pending.
The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team has been alerted and will determine whether a thorough investigation is necessary. Meanwhile, the Calgary Police Service has stated that they have provided support to the victims’ families during this challenging time.
This incident emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and adherence to traffic rules to ensure the safety of oneself and others on the road.
