As an investigation continues on into a tragic vehicle collision in the downtown core that claimed the life of a toddler earlier this week, Vancouver investigators are seeking to speak with the driver of another vehicle in the area at the time.  

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) stated in a news release issued today (July 9) that detectives identified a white Tesla that had been driving in the same direction as a suspect’s Ford Escape before a collision occurred at the intersection of Smithe and Hornby streets around 6 p.m. on July 6.

When the black Ford Escape collided with a black McLaren, one of the vehicles swerved on to the sidewalk, striking a 31-year-old father and his 23-month-old daughter (the initial VPD news release stated she was 11-months old but her age has since been clarified as 23-months old).    

The father was injured and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, but his daughter “died immediately”, according to the VPD.

Officers arrested the 29-year-old driver of the Ford Escape.

According to the VPD spokesperson Const. Tania Visintin, investigators believe that the white Tesla was driving west on Smithe Street before it made a right turn on to Hornby Street.

The vehicle pulled over on Hornby Street until about 6:08 p.m. before leaving the area.

As investigators believe the vehicle may have dashcam footage that may provide evidence, police are asking the driver of this vehicle to contact the VPD Collision Investigation Unit at 604-717-3012.