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Oceanside RCMP and emergency services were twice called to an event in Nanoose Bay on Saturday. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)
under the influence

Driver arrested after plowing through 5K Foam Fest event in Nanoose Bay

Jun 5, 2023 | 9:24 AM

NANAIMO — A pair of alarming incidents took place at a popular event in Nanoose Bay.

Oceanside RCMP were called out to the 5K Foam Fest held at Arbutus Meadows Event and Equestrian Centre in Nanoose Bay on Saturday, June 3 around 12:15 p.m. when police say a person drove their vehicle into an enclosed area.

Staff Sgt. Kris Clark told NanaimoNewsNOW via email the driver nearly hit several people.

“Fortunately, no one was injured. Upon arrival, police located the driver and conducted a series of sobriety tests which indicated that the driver was seemingly under the influence of drugs.”

Officers issued a 24 hour driving prohibition against the driver.

Clark noted their investigation is ongoing, however no charges in addition to the roadside prohibition have been laid to date.

Multiple witnesses described the scene as chaotic, shocking and lucky large amounts of people weren’t hit by the approaching vehicle.

Then, just over one hour later, emergency crews returned to the site to tend to an injured skydiver.

Clark said at around 1:45 p.m., the diver misjudged their landing and hit the ground far sooner than planned.

“They struck the ground awkwardly and suffered unknown injuries. They were transported by BC Emergency Health Services to a local area hospital.”

No update was available on the skydiver’s condition.

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