An 18-year-old female driver is facing multiple charges after two pedestrians were struck by a vehicle in Hopedale during the early morning hours of November 19, 2022. The driver failed to remain at the scene. She was located and arrested by Hopedale RCMP.
Shortly before 3:30 a.m., Hopedale RCMP received the report of the collision on American Road and attended the scene. Two females were struck by a motorist who had departed the scene prior to police arrival. The injured individuals were transported to the local health centre in Hopedale for treatment of their injuries and were further transported in an air ambulance to the Labrador Health Centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, where they remain at this time.
Police patrolled the community and located the involved vehicle and driver a short time later. The driver was taken into custody for dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm and showed signs of alcohol impairment. She was released later in the day, is set to attend court at a later date and is charged with the following criminal offences:
- Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm – two counts
- Impaired operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm – two counts
In addition, she was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for the following provincial offences:
- Operating a vehicle without registration
- Operating a vehicle without insurance
- Operating a vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. – Novice Driver Class 5 Level II licence
A licence suspension was issued.
The investigation is continuing with further charges possible.