A newer-model Jeep SUV crashed into a power pole at the Morden Rd. and Akenhead Rd. intersection around 11:55 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6 , cutting power for surrounding residents. (Nanaimo RCMP)

By Alex Rawnsley

power out

Impaired driver cuts power to huge area of south Nanaimo after late night crash

Jan 7, 2025 | 10:30 AM

NANAIMO — An alleged impaired driver is responsible for a late night crash which severed power for hundreds in rural areas south of Nanaimo.

Cranberry Fire Department, paramedics from BC Emergency Health Services and Nanaimo RCMP members were called out to the Morden Rd. and Akenhead Rd. intersection on Monday, Jan. 6 at about 11:55 p.m. after the driver of a newer model Jeep Liberty crashed into a BC Hydro pole.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW the driver, a local man in his 60’s, showed signs of impairment by alcohol.

“The BC Hydro pole is almost sheered off at the base, so it’s a significant issue that’s tied up a lot of resources. Members determined this individual had been drinking, he provided a breath sample which he failed.”

The driver was issued an immediate roadside prohibition and had his vehicle towed from the scene.

taking a stand

Mariners basketball team boycotting weekend games, citing 'hateful treatment' by opposition

9m ago

community celebration

Nanaimo hosting month-long art festival to celebrate 150th birthday

1h ago

charge laid

Woman charged following death of infant in Ladysmith

19h ago

O’Brien noted his wife came to pick him up.

A map of the outage, as of 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning. (BC Hydro)

The crash immediately cut power to over 1,000 BC Hydro customers, with service restored by early Tuesday afternoon.

O’Brien said the late-night response and aftermath all came about because of one person’s poor decision making.

“This speaks to the significance of impaired driving, the resources and the drain is has on society. There was significant resources tied up to deal with this call because of the fact an individual had chosen to drink and drive.”

The driver suffered minor injuries.

O’Brien said it’s unclear how fast the car was travelling at the time.

“The speed would have to be significant and it would probably imply that breaking was not involved to actually sheer the bottom of the pole.”

The pole is a main connector for several surrounding areas, connecting over 1,000 BC Hydro customers. (Google Maps)

Subscribe to our daily news wrap. Local news delivered to your email inbox every evening. Stay up to date on everything Nanaimo and Oceanside.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook