Search continues for driver who fled police crash scene
POLICE in Fort William have confirmed they ‘think they know’ the identity of the driver who fled the scene of a crash with police at the weekend.
Police launched a search for the male driver of a stolen Audi A4 who made off from a crash with a marked police car at Glen Nevis Road in Caol last Sunday (March 12).
Both the driver and passenger of the Audi made off from the scene around 10.15pm.
At a meeting of Caol Community Council on Monday night, Sergeant Keith Almond confirmed there was a ‘stolen car chase’ on Sunday night. He said: ‘It [the car] was slammed into the wall and burnt but there were no injuries. I can confirm we think we know who did it.’
Police said on Monday: ‘Officers are following a line of enquiry but are asking anyone with information to come forward.’
The passenger from the Audi has since been detained and is assisting police with inquires but police are urging the male driver to come forward.
Police said the Audi was reported stolen from a local address and was seen on Torlundy Road prior to the collision.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were also in attendance after the Audi caught fire. A fire truck from Fort William attended the scene for more than half an hour to put out the blaze. A spokesman told The Oban
Times: ‘The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 10.24pm on Sunday March 12 to a report of a car on fire on Glen Nevis Road in Caol. A fire appliance from Fort William was mobilised to the scene.
‘Upon arrival firefighters found the vehicle on fire and used two powerful water jets to extinguish the flames. There were no casualties reported and firefighters left the scene at 11.09pm after ensuring the area was made safe.’
On Monday burnt hedges and scorch marks on the pavement and road were visible at the scene. The Oban Times asked the Highland Council what could be done to repair the scorched road and was told no action would be taken while police are still investigating.
A spokesperson added that once the investigation was complete the police may ask the council about the road but said that this was yet to happen.
Chief Inspector Bob Mackay said: ‘A passenger from the Audi has been detained and is assisting police with inquiries. We are also looking to speak with the male driver who may have information that can assist with our enquiry. I would urge the driver of the Audi to come forward to confirm they are safe and well.
‘I am appealing for anyone who hasn’t already spoken to police to come forward as they may have information that can assist with our investigation.’
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.