Two critically injured in single-vehicle crash

Source: Langley Times

BRITISH COLUMBIA - Two young people are in critical condition after a single-vehicle crash on Glover Road early Sunday morning.

The 18-year-old female driver is suspected of being impaired.

Around 2 a.m., a Volkswagen Jetta was being driven north on Glover Road by the teen. There were three passengers, two 18-year-olds and a 24-year-old man.

The driver failed to negotiate the sharp left turn at the railway tracks at the Jardine crossing. The Jetta struck the concrete barrier on the north side of the road, became airborne, and struck the water pipes connected to Trinity Western University before coming to rest on its driver’s side in a shallow gully next to a power pole, said police.

Langley Township firefighters had to use the Jaws of Life to extract the two people who were seriously hurt and trapped inside.

The male passenger in the back seat was badly injured and along with the driver were taken to hospital, where they both remain in critical but stable condition, said police on Monday.

The other two, a male and a female, sustained minor injuries. Only one of the two required medical attention.

"The investigation thus far indicates both alcohol and speed were factors in the collision," said Cpl. Holly Marks. "There is no indication any other vehicle was involved and the roads were clear and dry that night."

Water service and electricity in the area were turned off for a period of time while the necessary repairs were completed.

Glover Road remained closed from Springbrook Road to 76 Avenue until around 8 a.m.

Langley traffic services collision analyst collected evidence of measurements and took photographs. The Jetta has been seized and a mechanical inspection will be completed at a later date, said Marks.

Police continue to investigate.

There were 18 separate impaired driving investigations conducted by Langley RCMP from Friday afternoon (Dec. 4) until Sunday. Twelve drivers were issued 24- hour driving prohibitions and had their vehicles impounded. Five others will have criminal charges recommended against them for either driving with a blood alcohol content of over 80mgs/100ml, or refusing to provide a breath sample.

"The holiday season should be a time for family, friends and the creation of happy memories. It is long past the time for making excuses for impaired driving," said Marks. "Please think of your friends, your family and your fellow motorists before operating a vehicle after consuming any alcohol."

There are multiple alternatives available including taxis, Operation Red Nose, and designated drivers and yet year after year, drunk driving remains a major problem, especially in this holiday season, said police.

Any witnesses to this serious crash who have not yet spoken to police are asked to call Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200.