Nanaimo RCMP say an SUV and motorcycle collided by the Nanaimo River Rd. turnoff along the Trans Canada Hwy. earlier Tuesday morning. (Image Credit: Sheila Ie)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

highway closure

Motorcyclist travelling ‘at an extreme speed’ crashes into SUV south of Nanaimo

Aug 4, 2026 | 11:01 AM

NANAIMO — A motorcyclist remains in hospital with significant injuries after crashing into the back of an SUV along the Trans Canada Hwy.

The incident occurred shortly after 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4 at the Nanaimo River Rd. turnoff along Hwy. 1, and saw a motorcycle travelling south at very high speeds crash into a southbound SUV.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said multiple witnesses have already come forward, detailing the moments leading up to the crash.

“The vehicle was seen going at an extreme speed and collided with the back of the SUV. The motorcyclist sustained significant injuries, was airlifted to hospital. No other injuries were reported and there was minor damage to the SUV.”

BC Emergency Health Services stated the injured patient received on-scene emergency medical treatment and was then flown to hospital in serious condition.

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Both southbound lanes of the highway were closed until just after 2 p.m. as investigators worked over the scene.

One northbound lane was blocked off to allow responding emergency crews space to work, but re-opened after the air ambulance departed the scene.

O’Brien said an extensive closure of the highway created some headaches for travellers.

“An incident of this nature takes a long time to investigate. We do that because we have to maintain the integrity of the investigation, we also have to have a safe area for the helicopter to land, so we appreciate the patience shown by all the motorists who were backlogged for several hours.”

An investigation into the incident is continuing, and anyone who has information regarding the motorcycle’s actions prior to the crash is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250 754 2345.

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by NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Motorcyclist travelling ‘at an extreme speed’ crashes into SUV south of Nanaimo

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