Man Driving Backhoe Arrested After Pursuit Near Kingsclear

A 27-year-old man from Alberta has been arrested following a pursuit on Highway 2 in the Upper Kingsclear area in the early morning hours Tuesday.

At approximately 3:40 a.m., police responded to a complaint that a backhoe was travelling westbound without its lights on. According to the RCMP, when police caught up to the backhoe, several attempts were made to pull the vehicle over but the driver refused to comply. During the pursuit, the vehicle swerved several times striking the guard rail. A spike belt was deployed and, with the assistance of the Fredericton Police Force. The vehicle eventually came to a stop near exit 253 in Prince William.

After the vehicle was stopped, police arrested the driver and lone occupant of the vehicle. No one was injured during the incident but damage was caused to the backhoe. The highway and guard rail were also damaged. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor.

The man remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court Tuesday to face charges.

The investigation is continuing.