DATE: May 16, 2019

FILE# 2019-2578

PORT MOODY – On May 15, 2019 at approximately 6 p.m., the Port Moody Fire Rescue requested the assistance of the Port Moody Police Department (PMPD) for a report of a vehicle and boat combination, which had rolled down the boat launch and into the water at Rocky Point Park.

Upon arrival, Officers observed a white electric SUV, fully submerged in the water, along with an attached boat and trailer.

Investigation determined that the male driver attempted to tow his boat from of the water and up the boat launch. Upon pulling the boat forward, the boat’s engine propeller struck the ground as it had not been sufficiently raised.

In an attempt to avoid damaging the propeller, the driver exited his vehicle and jumped in the boat to raise the engine. At this point the vehicle (and boat) began to roll backward down the steep incline toward the water.

As the vehicle rolled backward, the operator jumped from the boat, awkwardly landing on the ground, and was struck by the moving vehicle, causing minor injuries.

The SUV, trailer, and boat became completely submerged in the water, and a tow truck was called to remove them. Upon being pulled from the salt water, it is believed the electric vehicle’s batteries ignited and caught fire. The vehicle remained on fire for several hours before finally being extinguished by Port Moody Fire Rescue. It was towed from the scene just after midnight.

The driver was transported to hospital to be treated for minor injuries and later released. No charges have been laid at this time as the investigation is still ongoing. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor.

Released by

Cst. Jason Maschke

Community Relations Officer

Port Moody Police

www.portmoodypolice.com

Email: media@portmoodypolice.com

3051 St Johns Street

Port Moody, BC V3H 2C4

Office 604-461-3456 Fax: 604-937-1311