Quesnel RCMP are now looking for the driver of a different semi-truck that crashed into the side of the Quesnel River Bridge yesterday in what is being described as a hit and run.
“Witnesses provided a license plate of a blue transport truck which was later confirmed not to be the suspect vehicle. With the extent of the damage to the bridge, and the vehicle debris left at the scene, we believe the driver of the vehicle was aware of the collision,” said Sergeant Richard Weseen.
Anyone with dashcam footage or who could identify the transport truck should contact Quesnel RCMP.
The collision caused major traffic delay sand extensive damage.
“On July 13, 2020, at approximately 11:40 am, a northbound transport truck struck the bridge guard rails and failed to remain at the scene. The damage to the bridge was extensive and initial estimates were over $30,000,” Weseen said.
The bridge was down to one lane for approximately four hours, and Weseen says the police also responded to numerous calls regarding frustrated drivers who were conducting unsafe u-turns and driving the wrong way across the Johnston Bridge as a result of the backed-up traffic.
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ORIGINAL STORY:
Quesnel RCMP have confirmed a hit and run accident just before noon left the Quesnel Bridge severely damaged and closed.
“A blue Peterbilt semi-truck was travelling northbound on Highway 97 and struck the Quesnel River bridge, and it caused significant damage to the railings,” said Sergeant Richard Weseen.
He added police have located and spoken with the driver of the truck although the investigation is still ongoing.
There was also some damage done at around the midway point of the bridge, as the truck struck the side a second time.
Weseen says traffic is now limited to a single lane, and motorists are asked to avoid the area if at all possible.
– with files from George Henderson, MyCaribooNow.com