A multi-vehicle crash on the morning of December 26, 2024, which sent four individuals, including two minors, to the hospital, was triggered by police chasing a suspect involved in a pharmacy robbery, according to Calgary authorities.
The Calgary Police Service reported receiving calls at approximately 9:30 AM concerning the robbery at the Pharmasave located at 15 Millrise Blvd. S.W. During this incident, the pharmacist was assaulted and the suspect fled the scene driving a stolen vehicle.
About twenty minutes later, the police attempted to execute a traffic stop on the suspect's vehicle. The suspect, not complying with law enforcement, continued to drive dangerously, eventually running through a red light at the intersection of Macleod Trail and Southland Drive S. This reckless maneuver resulted in the suspect colliding with several vehicles.
The impact of the collision was severe. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, finding significant damage across at least five vehicles. Eyewitness Paul Donaldson recounted, "Unfortunately, when I got out of the car, I saw the little girl lying on the ground and they (emergency personnel) were working on her." He described how he and his partner exited their vehicle after it was struck, leading to moments of chaos and disbelief as emergency workers arrived.
All four individuals who sustained injuries were reported to be in "critical, life-threatening condition," prompting urgent medical attention from multiple ambulances at the scene.
Notable police response included HAWCS helicopter support to monitor the suspect’s flight and ground units dealing with the ensuing wreckage. This significant response reflected the authorities' immediate concern for public safety after the suspect's actions led to this disastrous outcome.
Calgary Fire Department personnel reported at least two people were trapped inside their vehicles and required extrication using the jaws of life. Battalion Chief Scott Cowan described the priority focus on the most critically injured, confirming two minors and two adults were among those transported to hospitals. The overall condition of the individuals taken to hospitals remains serious.
According to Calgary Police, the suspect fled the pharmacy scene around 9:30 AM, leading to the later police chase. A statement from the police department noted, "It is believed the suspect assaulted a pharmacist and fled the scene in a stolen vehicle." Further, they confirmed the suspect was arrested at the crash site, with charges pending.
The police explained, "We fully recognize the devastating impact on the families of the victims, especially during this time of year, and supports have been offered to help them navigate this difficult time." This quote reflects the department’s acknowledgment of the tragic consequences felt by the families involved.
Witness Donaldson emphasized the surreal nature of the day as he recalled, "The minivan came flying through the red light... Smoked her and she came flying toward us." This narrative underlines the chaotic moment leading up to the collision and the dangers of high-speed pursuits on busy roads.
Following the crash, significant road closures were imposed on Macleod Trail and Southland Drive as investigations continued. Both north and southbound directions on Macleod Trail were closed from 94 Avenue to 99 Avenue SE, and east and westbound routes on Southland Drive were blocked from Horton Road SW to Bonaventure Drive SE.
Motorists were advised to reroute and avoid the area. The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has been informed due to police involvement prior to the incident, ensuring the event will undergo thorough review.
Police are currently seeking additional witnesses to the collision to provide more information. They urge anyone with insights related to the event to contact them via the designated hotline or online booking system. This appeal reflects the urgency of gathering comprehensive reports on such significant incidents.
The aftermath of this incident raises questions about the intersection of crime and public safety, especially resulting from the suspect's erratic driving and the police pursuit. This incident served as yet another reminder of the possible tragic outcomes when criminal actions collide with public safety efforts.
Meanwhile, the community grapples with the repercussions of this serious crash, as the families of the victims are left facing uncertain futures filled with vulnerability and worry.
