Several concerned citizens are being credited with apprehending an alleged drunk driver who smashed into a light standard in Red Deer then continued driving into a parking lot.
Cpl. Kathe DeHeer of city RCMP said the incident occurred around 7:50 p.m. Monday when an erratically driven pickup smashed into a light standard in the centre median at Molly Bannister Drive.
The pickup sustained heavy damage but continued heading north in the south lanes until turning into the Capri Centre Hotel parking lot. The driver exited and tried to leave but was restrained by witnesses until RCMP arrived.
A 38-year-old Calgary man is charged with failing to remain at the scene of an accident, impaired driving, driving with a blood-alcohol content of more than .08 and mischief.
The suspect, who wasn’t named by police, appears in Red Deer provincial court Feb. 2.
DeHeer said police thank the people who assisted in the arrest. “We do appreciate the assistance,” DeHeer said. However, police don’t recommend people intervene in a crime because of the inherent danger.
She said people should pay attention to other drivers and report suspected drunk drivers.