A 29-year-old man from Calgary was charged by Airdrie RCMP July 16 for driving at two-and-a-half times the legal blood alcohol limit, according to Airdrie RCMP Sergeant Steve Browne.
“(The issue) was two-fold. Driving under the influence is not wise in itself,” he said. “But driving in the wrong direction on a freeway is not the safest means of driving either.”
RCMP received complaints shortly after noon that a small white Chevrolet Sonic car was travelling southbound on Highway 2A in the northbound lanes. That behaviour could have easily resulted in tragedy, according to Browne.
“The investigating officer was very surprised it didn’t cause a major collision, (especially since) you’re dealing with freeway speeds,” he said. “Any impact at that speed would have had a high risk of causing a fatality, one or more. It was very, very lucky that didn’t occur.”
According to Browne, police received multiple complaints from drivers along Highway 2A, many of whom had to swerve to avoid a collision.
The individual will face charges of impaired operation of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving and driving a vehicle over the limit in Airdrie Provincial Court at a future date.
Stolen flags
Edgewater residents showing their Canadian pride not long after Canada Day fell victim to thieves after their Canada flags were stolen from their property, according to Browne.
“Whether it was kids up to no good or a targeted attack, that would be only speculation on my part,” he said.
Browne said the thefts occurred at some point during the night. The flags were stolen from two separate residences.
“When you’re flying your national flag and somebody steals it, it’s disheartening,” Browne said. “If somebody is flying that on their property, they take great pride in their country. For sure, they’re completely disheartened by the theft.”
Counterfeit currency
RCMP is reminding business owners to be cognizant of individuals attempting to utilize counterfeit currency in the community, specifically $50 and $100 Canadian bills.
“There’s been a number of occurrences in the last couple of months involving counterfeit currency being passed in the city of Airdrie,” Browne said. “This is a general reminder to pay specific attention to ($50 and $100 bills).”
Those utilizing counterfeit bills often target small businesses, according to an RCMP release.
Business owners should take steps to check currency prior to accepting payment.
“It’s always the right of refusal for the business owner to not accept any type of denomination if they think it’s fraudulent,” Browne said. “Know your rights in terms of dealing with that type of thing. If you deem those bills to be suspicious in nature you can request another form of payment.”
If you have any information about any crime, contact the Airdrie RCMP Detachment at (403) 945-7200 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at tipsubmit.com
