The Golden Ears bridge was shut down on Wednesday after a dangerous driving incident that caused several minor crashes but no injuries.
Just after 2 p.m. Maple Ridge RCMP traffic officers tried to wave over the driver of a Ford pickup for speeding. The driver initially pulled over, then sped away towards Coquitlam on Lougheed Highway.
Police identified the pickup as having recently been stolen and followed it, along with police helicopter, as it sped through several Lower Mainland communities.
"Both Coquitlam and Langley RCMP officers deployed spike belts numerous times to try and slow or stop the vehicle safely," said Sgt. Annie Linteau, spokesperson for Lower Mainland RCMP. "Unfortunately, the driver continued to drive dangerously, at times into incoming traffic."
For public safety reasons Ridge Meadows RCMP closed the Golden Ears bridge, and police boxed the pick-up safely in. By that point three of the truck's tires had been deflated.
Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team members were on scene and successfully arrested the driver, known to police as a prolific offender. He was due to appear in court Feb. 19.
@spayneTC
