BC Interior posted Jun 30, 2025 @ 01:04pm by Cheyanna Lorraine

Small wildfire north of Merritt started after impaired driver hit the ditch: RCMP

An impaired driver was issued an immediate roadside prohibition on Sunday after crashing on Highway 5A and starting a small wildfire.

The single-vehicle crash happened on Sunday just north of Nicola Lake, the Merritt RCMP said.

When RCMP officers responded, witnesses told them the river of the vehicle swerved to avoid hitting a fox on the road.

When the vehicle hit the ditch, a fire started within the vehicle and spread to nearby brush.

<who> Photo Credit: Carly Isaac via X

BC Wildfire Service responded to the small blaze, which grew to one hectare. As of Monday afternoon, the fire is listed as under control.

A breathalyzer test determined the driver was impaired and the driver was handed an immediate roadside prohibition.

The driver is now banned from driving for 90 days and had their vehicle impounded for 30 days.

A news release said the driver is not being investigated for the ignition of the wildfire, at this time.

"The Merritt RCMP continues to remind the public about and enforce impaired driving. There is zero leniency with driving while impaired,” said Cst. Blake Chursinoff.

“We are grateful for our partners with BC Wildfire for their swift action in containing the blaze and the public who stayed on scene and were able to provide key information to the officers for their investigation.”

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