Truck driver detained after striking B.C. highway overpass, police say

Officers were called to the Blundell Road overpass along Highway 99 at around 2 p.m., when witnesses reported that a southbound flatbed truck was towing an excavator when it struck the overpass. (DriveBC)

Police say a transport truck driver was detained in Richmond, B.C., on Wednesday after allegedly striking a highway overpass and leaving the scene of the collision.

Officers were called to the Blundell Road overpass along Highway 99 at around 2 p.m., when witnesses reported that a southbound flatbed truck was towing an excavator when it struck the overpass.

“Witnesses say the driver got out of the cab but drove away from the scene before police arrived,” the B.C. Highway Patrol said in news release.

No one was injured in the collision and damage to the overpass “appears to be superficial,” police said.

Police caught up with the truck driver about 20 minutes later and are now working with Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement officers to determine “appropriate charges, including potential licensing and permit issues,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin in a statement.

Highway traffic through the area has since resumed, and investigators say the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Transit will examine the overpass to ensure it is safe.