Impaired Driver Involved in Crash with SUV Carrying Migrants in Quebec

Impaired Driver Involved in Crash with SUV Carrying Migrants in Quebec, Say Authorities

A joint investigation is underway in Hemmingford, Quebec, near the US border, following a collision involving an alleged impaired driver and a second vehicle carrying migrants. The incident, which occurred on Sunday at around 4:15 a.m., resulted in four people being injured, although authorities do not fear for their lives.

According to the Sûreté du Québec (SQ), the crash occurred on Route 202, near the intersection of Jackson Road, in Hemmingford, approximately 65 kilometers south of Montreal. The vehicle carrying the migrants rolled over, resulting in injuries to four passengers, who were subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment. The remaining passengers fled the scene on foot.

The immigration status of the migrants has been described as irregular, although further details have not been disclosed. The SQ initially reported that there were 10 migrants in the SUV, but later updated the number to 12. As of press time, authorities were still searching for eight people believed to have been traveling in the SUV.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has confirmed that the migrants entered Canada from the United States, although the exact timing of their entry is unclear. The RCMP has been called in to assist in the search, utilizing drones and a canine unit.

The SQ is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, while the RCMP is handling aspects related to the migrants. The driver of the second vehicle, a 48-year-old American man, has been arrested for impaired driving. A passenger in his vehicle was not injured.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of migrants and the importance of addressing the root causes of irregular migration. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to provide support to those affected and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.