Intoxicated car thief arrested with help from Tesla driver, police say

Lights are seen atop a police vehicle in New Westminster, B.C., on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024. (CTV News)

An intoxicated man who stole a car and caused a collision was arrested with the help of a driver whose vehicle he crashed into in Vancouver, according to authorities.

Officers were called to the intersection of Nanaimo Street and Kingsway at 7 p.m. Tuesday for reports the driver of a Dodge Charger had crashed into a Kia and a Tesla, the Vancouver Police Department said in a statement.

“When officers arrived, they found the Tesla driver restraining the suspect from the stolen vehicle. Police learned the suspect was intoxicated and had attempted to run from the scene but was stopped by the Tesla driver,” police said, in the statement.

“The suspect was treated for minor injuries. Police thanked the Tesla driver for their assistance.”

Police soon learned the Dodge Charger had been reported stolen and the driver was banned from being behind the wheel Canada-wide.

Several charges are being recommended to Crown counsel.