News release

Investigation Begins Into Halifax Crash

SIRT

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team is investigating a motor vehicle accident that happened early today, Nov. 9, on the Northwest Arm Drive exit off Highway 102 in Halifax.

Shortly after 4 a.m., an officer attempted to pull over a vehicle on St. Margaret's Bay Road. The vehicle did not stop, proceeding on Highway 103 toward Halifax, with police in pursuit. The driver lost control of the vehicle as it took the Northwest Arm Drive exit off Highway 102, flipped over a guardrail and landed on its roof.

Two occupants fled the scene and were later located and arrested by a K-9 unit. The driver of the vehicle was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The vehicle involved in the crash was later found to have been stolen. Both ramps onto Highway 102 were closed for several hours.

Because there was a serious injury during a police pursuit, and in accordance with the Police Act requirements, the Halifax Regional Police referred the incident to the Serious Incident Response Team.

The Serious Incident Response Team is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to call 902-424-2010.

The team is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, whether or not there is an allegation of wrongdoing. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian director Ron MacDonald.

It can independently launch an investigation or begin one after a referral from a chief of police, the head of the RCMP in Nova Scotia or the Minister of Justice. It can also investigate after a complaint from the public.

The Police Act requires the director to file a public report summarizing the investigation results within three months.