A likely mechanical failure ended with a RCMP receiving reports of a vehicle on the beach by Esquimalt Lagoon in Colwood this morning (Thursday, Aug. 22).
West Shore RCMP and the Colwood Fire Department were called to the corner of Lagoon Rd. and Ocean Blvd. at about 8:30 a.m. to find a green Ford Explorer on the beach perched on several logs. A 17-year-old driver was found conscious and breathing in the driver's seat.
Witnesses told the police they had seen the SUV travelling down Lagoon Rd., with the driver continuously honking his horn, seemingly warning people on the beach that he could not stop.
The vehicle went through the intersection, passed over a bush and through a bench before stopping on the beach.
Two people had been sitting on the bench and moved when they heard the vehicle honking, getting out of the way in time.
The driver has been taken to Victoria General Hospital with unknown injuries. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor.
"It is fortunate no one else was hurt in this incident, as the driver was able to think quickly and alert people on the beach," said Const. Brandon Marr.