Burnaby/Abbotsford – UPDATE MARCH 5 – One of the police officers struck and injured by a vehicle while training on Monday has been released from hospital. Abbotsford Police Department’s Cpl Aaron Courtney, a 15 year officer and 10 year member of the Lower Mainland District Integrated Police Dog Services Unit, is now at home recovering with his family and friends.
This was an extremely serious collision, which could have resulted in significant injury or the death of these officers. However, we are relieved that the prognosis for both officers appears to be positive. No service dogs were injured in the collision. This incident has shaken the police community, and we are grateful for the public’s overwhelming support.
The other vehicle believed to be involved in the collision has been recovered, and the driver responsible is being sought. We continue to ask anyone who may have witnessed this collision, or has information, dash-cam or CCTV footage to please call the Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9511 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
MARCH 4 ORIGINAL STORY – Burnaby RCMP Traffic Services is investigating a collision involving a suspect vehicle and a police vehicle, which occurred just before Noon Monday in the 5000-block of North Fraser Way and North Fraser Crescent.
The police vehicle was stationary and pulled over at the side of the road, when it was struck. Two police officers from the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service, standing outside the vehicle, were injured as a result.
The two male officers, one an RCMP member and the other an integrated member from the Abbotsford Police Department are currently being treated at hospital.
The injuries for both officers are believed to be serious but non-life threatening. APD later stated that their officer did not suffer broken bones will will be very sore from bruising and should be released from hospital Monday evening.
A white Toyota with front end damage was found a few blocks away and Global reports that they have heard, the driver may have been impaired. APD tweeted that the suspect was found. That tweet has since been removed.
The bumper was found next to the dog carrying vehicle. The dog trainers were working a park that is used by dog services for training.
Police are hoping to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the collision. Please call the Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9511.
