Truck Stop Turns Into Impaired Driving Bust
On December 4, 2025, a 52-year-old Abbotsford man driving a loaded Peterbilt tractor-trailer was pulled over by the BC Highway Patrol on Highway 3B near Fruitvale. Radar had clocked the truck at 75 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.
When officers approached the cab, they noticed a lit candle burning inside. Police said the candle appeared to be an attempt to mask the smell of alcohol.
Breath-Test Fails, Driver Penalized
Officers conducted a mandatory alcohol screening. The driver blew a “warn,” indicating his blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. As a result:
- His licence was immediately suspended for three days.
- The commercial vehicle was impounded for three days.
- He was also fined $138 for speeding and $230 for having open liquor in the vehicle.
Police noted the presence of an open container of alcohol in the cab.
What Police Say Candle Raised Suspicion
According to the patrol’s statement the use of a candle struck officers as unusual. “It is possible the driver is very fond of Christmas candles. It is also possible he was trying to mask the odour of liquor,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin.
Because of that, officers used their powers under the national Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS) rules to demand a breath test. MAS allows police to demand a breath sample from any driver, even without obvious signs of impairment.
Broader Context Winter Enforcement Effort Underway
The stop comes as the province’s annual winter impaired-driving campaign is under way. The BC Highway Patrol and partner agencies will step up checks in December, using MAS and other tools to remove impaired drivers from the roads.
Officials warn that even in commercial vehicles, driving after consuming alcohol carries serious consequences not only legal penalties but risk to public safety.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
