From Red Deer RCMP

Red Deer RCMP have cleared Taylor Drive of police presence and traffic is now moving freely again along Taylor Drive. 60 Street north of Taylor Drive is expected to re-open to traffic by approximately 3:20 pm.

Red Deer RCMP thank drivers and residents of the affected areas for their patience during traffic disruptions. Updates regarding the ongoing investigation will be issued next week as more information becomes available.

The incident began at approximately 11:30 am today when RCMP responded to a report of an erratic driver in a parking lot on Gaetz Avenue in north Red Deer. RCMP responded immediately and executed a traffic stop; the suspect vehicle stopped for police then fled once the police officer had exited their vehicle. Police did not pursue the vehicle for public safety reasons but located it again in an alley in north Red Deer shortly afterward, where the vehicle again fled police. The suspect vehicle collided with a citizen’s vehicle at the intersection of 60 Street and Taylor Drive and then collided with a tree.

The male driver of the suspect vehicle was pronounced deceased shortly before 1:30 this afternoon. His name will not be released at this time pending next of kin notifications and the unfolding investigation. The citizen whose vehicle was struck was treated for minor injuries at the scene of the collision by Red Deer Emergency Services and released.

Red Deer RCMP are asking drivers to avoid the collision area in order to avoid traffic delays and to give police room to work. If you have information about this investigation, please call Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575.

The investigation is still in its early stages and RCMP do not have more information at this time. Red Deer RCMP will issue an update as more information becomes available.