RCMP say they are investigating after a car crashed into the entrance to the emergency room at Cowichan District Hospital in Duncan on Vancouver Island.
Police say officers responded at approximately 7:40 pm PT on Saturday and found a black Chevrolet Traverse pickup truck lodged outside the hospital.
Photos quickly circulated on social media and appeared to show the car parked in the emergency waiting room.
RCMP say the driver, a 42-year-old woman, allegedly proceeded to assault two paramedics who had come to her aid, leaving one paramedic with minor injuries.
A statement from Island Health says no hospital staff or patients were injured.
BC Paramedics are not employees of hospitals, but rather BC Emergency Health Services.
The driver was subsequently subdued and detained under the Mental Health Act.
Island Health is in the process of assessing the affected area and a spokesperson said there is no lasting structural damage to the building.
Temporary doors have been installed in the area and patient access has not been affected, according to the spokesperson.
The health authority states that the emergency service remains open for those who need urgent medical attention.
There is currently no timeline for when permanent repairs will begin or how much they would cost.
“We are incredibly grateful for the quick response of all Island Health staff involved and the support of the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP,” the Island Health statement read.
Anyone with information is asked to contact North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP.
