Release:

RCMP Northwest Traffic Services has charged a driver and passenger under the Motor Vehicle Act in relation to a dangerous incident on Hwy. 105 near Fort Bevis.

On June 27, at approximately 3:08 p.m., an RCMP officer was patrolling Hwy. 105 when a Mazda3 passed with a person in the open hatchback who was filming. The vehicle was travelling at about the maximum speed limit on the highway (100 km/hr) with a second vehicle following it.

The officer initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. 

The driver, a 21-year-old man from Hubbards, was issued a summary offence ticket for permitting a person to ride on a portion of a vehicle not designed for passengers. The passenger, a 25-year-old man from Moncton, was issued a summary offence ticket for riding on a portion of a vehicle not designed for passengers.

“In this case, the man was strapped into the hatchback with an improvised safety restraint,” says S/Sgt. Wes Blair, Acting Officer in Charge of RCMP Traffic Services. “A temporary harness, strap, or improvised restraint does not replace a seatbelt, a proper seating position, closed doors, and the safety systems built into the vehicle.”

Drivers are responsible for the safe operation of their vehicle and for ensuring passengers are properly seated and restrained. Passengers also have a responsibility to follow the law and avoid behaviour that puts themselves or others at risk.

Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving or unsafe vehicle use is asked to call police. If it is an emergency or an immediate risk to public safety, call 911.

File #: 2026-895296