Kelowna man facing numerous charges in Vernon after two police cars damaged in escape attempt

Photo: Contributed

A Kelowna man is facing numerous charges after damaging two cop cars while trying to elude police in Vernon.

North Okanagan RCMP spokesperson Const. Chris Terleski says RCMP received a report on Friday of a disturbance outside a residence on the 2300 block of 36th Street.

Shortly after 9 p.m., officers arrived and, after speaking to witnesses, identified a suspect involved in the incident who was departing in a vehicle.

“As police attempted to stop the vehicle, the male driver ignored police direction (and) continued to drive away in an attempt to escape, colliding with two police vehicles and nearly striking an officer who was on foot,” says Terleski.

Additional officers responding to the scene located and contained the vehicle, which was now parked in the driveway of a nearby residence.

After being placed under arrest, the suspect continued to ignore the direction of police and was removed from the vehicle and safely taken into custody without further incident.

“This person’s actions jeopardized the safety of our officers and the public in their attempt to escape,” said Terleski. “Fortunately, no one was injured and, thanks to the decisive action of our officers, they were able to safely intervene and prevent any further risk to the public.”

The 37-year old Kelowna man is charged with several criminal offences in relation to the incident and remains in custody as police continue the investigation.