80-year-old man dies after being struck by impaired driver at Qualicum crash scene

A man who initially stopped to help a woman who had crashed into a power pole has tragically passed after being struck by a passing vehicle.

In a media release, BCRCMP confirmed that 80-year-old Patrick Hare from Alberta died after being struck by an impaired driver while he was helping a woman who had crashed into a hydro pole.

The initial crash occurred at around 2:55 a.m. on March 2nd, with a female driver veering off the road and colliding with a pole, possibly due to weather conditions.

Hare had stopped to render assistance, and while both individuals were standing on the side of the roadway, a third vehicle collided with the woman’s car, injuring both of them.

In an act of bravery, Hare pushed the woman out of harm’s way, ultimately sacrificing his own life to save hers.

All three individuals to the hospital. At the time, it was reported Hare had sustained serious, life-threatening injuries.  The woman, although severely injured, is expected to recover.

Related: Impaired driver crashes into two people at scene of another crash near Qualicum Beach

The driver of the second vehicle, who displayed signs of impairment, was also injured in the collision and was hospitalized.

Initially, Oceanside RCMP responded to the scene, noting signs of impairment in the second vehicle’s driver. However, the BC Highway Patrol has taken over the investigation, urging witnesses or those with dashcam footage to come forward and assist.

“Impaired Driving is a leading cause of death and injury on our highways. Police are reminding everyone to report all suspected impaired drivers by immediately calling 911 and for others to plan ahead, use a designated driver, take a taxi, or just stay with a friend,” said Corporal Melissa Jongema, BC Highway Patrol Media Relations Officer.

For anyone with information regarding this collision, contact BC Highway Patrol Parksville at (250) 954-2953, quoting file number 2024-388.