VPD says Tesla dashcam video may have clues to crash that killed child

By Hana Mae Nassar

Posted July 9, 2021 9:36 am.

Last Updated July 9, 2021 9:43 am.

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Vancouver police say they’re looking to speak with the driver of a white Tesla that may have video related to the deadly crash in the city Tuesday, that left a 23-month-old girl dead.

Investigators believe the camera on the vehicle may have recorded evidence related to the collision.

“Detectives have identified a white Tesla that was driving in the same direction as the suspect’s vehicle before the time of the crash,” said Const. Tania Visintin. “Investigators are asking for that person to come forward and speak to police.”

The crash happened just after 6 p.m. in the area of Smithe and Hornby streets. Police say the two-vehicle crash between a black Ford Escape and a black Mclaren sent one of the vehicles onto the sidewalk, where a 31-year-old man was carrying his daughter, Ocean.

The man was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The child died at the scene.

Police said the next day that one of the drivers had been taken into custody. Charges have not yet been recommended, and the suspect was released on Thursday.

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page set up for the child’s family has raised tens of thousands of dollars.

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It’s believed the white Tesla was driving west on Smithe St., making a right turn onto Hornby before pulling over. Police say the vehicle is believed to have been pulled over on Hornby until about 6:08 p.m., before it left.

The driver of the white Tesla — or anyone with information about what happened — is asked to contact the VPD’s Collision Investigation Unit at 604.717.3012.

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