RCMP say they are investigating after a car crashed into the entrance of Cowichan District Hospital’s emergency room in Duncan on Vancouver Island.
Police say that officers responded at approximately 7:40 p.m. PT on Saturday, finding a black Chevrolet Traverse SUV lodged in the doors of the hospital.
Photos quickly circulated on social media, appearing to show the car sitting in the ER waiting room.
RCMP say that the driver, a 42-year-old woman, allegedly proceeded to assault two paramedics who had come to her aid, leaving one paramedic with minor injuries.
A statement from Island Health says that no hospital staff or patients sustained injuries.
Paramedics in B.C. are not hospital employees, but are employed by B.C. Emergency Health Services.
The driver was later subdued and apprehended under the Mental Health Act.
Island Health is in the process of assessing the affected area, and a spokesperson said there is no lasting structural damage to the building.
Temporary doors have been installed in the area and patient access has not been affected, according to the spokesperson.
The health authority says that the emergency department remains open for those in need of emergency medical care.
There is currently no timeline for when permanent repairs will begin or how much they would cost.
“We are incredibly thankful for the swift response from all Island Health staff involved and the support of North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP,” reads the Island Health statement.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP.
