July 4, 2012

Concrete truck driver faces charges

RICHARD GILBERT

staff writer

A concrete truck driver has been charged in connection with a death that occurred in April 2011, when his vehicle plowed into a small car causing both vehicles to go over an embankment in New Westminster, B.C.

“The New Westminster Police Department conducted an extensive investigation which included their Major Crime Unit, Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Team along with independent experts who were able to assist with the investigation,” said Sgt. Diana McDaniel of the New Westminster Police.

As a result of the investigation, Crown Counsel approved a charge of Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle Causing Death against 43 year old Mohammad Abdolmalekpoor on June 20.

Abdolmalekpoor was hauling a load down a steep hill on Holmes Street on April 19, 2011, when he ran a red light at the intersection of East Columbia Street.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the trucks brakes smoking, as the vehicle collided with a southbound car carrying two people on East Columbia Street.

The truck pushed the car through a concrete barrier and both vehicles tumbled down a 20 foot embankment.

Firefighters arrived soon and put out the flames after bystanders were unable to do so.

An ambulance took the car’s occupants to Royal Columbian Hospital.

Mark Holmes, a 26-year old resident of Coquitlam, was declared dead on arrival.

Abdolmalekpoor is scheduled to make his first court appearance on July 9. He is not currently in police custody.

The following Motor Vehicle Act charges have also been submitted: driving a motor vehicle without due care and attention, driving a motor vehicle without reasonable consideration, failure to ensure vehicle in safe operating condition and operating a vehicle without effective service brakes.

Holmes’ death has devastated his family.

He was on his way to pick up his wife and infant son, Jackson, for a doctor’s appointment.

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