Suspected drunk driver arrested thanks to tips

A Kamloops man is facing potential charges following an impaired driving incident Tuesday afternoon in Coldstream.

Vernon RCMP received multiple complaints of an erratic and possibly impaired driver just before noon.

It was reported the vehicle appeared to have front-end damage and the driver appeared to be disoriented, stopping multiple times to ask directions.

An officer stopped a dark grey Dodge Charger with extensive front-end damage on Ponderosa Way in Coldstream.

The driver displayed “notable signs and symptoms of alcohol intoxication,” said Const. Kelly Brett, adding the driver failed a roadside breath test.

“The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP wish to thank those citizens who called in to report the erratic driver behaviour,” said Brett. “It is as a result of the actions of those concerned members of the public that may have averted a tragedy and saved someone’s life that afternoon.”

The driver, a 32-year-old Kamloops man, was issued a 90-day driving prohibition. As well, his vehicle was impounded for 30 days.

Later that day at 3:30 p.m., RMCP received a report of extensive damage to Creekside Park off Kidston Road in Coldstream.

Mounties believe the damage was caused by a vehicle driving onto the field and exiting through a maintenance fence.

The damage will cost thousands of dollars to repair, said Brett.

Police believe the two incidents may be connected.

Witnesses are asked to contact RCMP at 250-545-7171.