Quebec provincial police are currently investigating an incident in Saint-Tite, Quebec, where six individuals sustained injuries after being hit by a vehicle early Saturday morning. The collision between the vehicle and pedestrians occurred on Saint-Joseph Boulevard, with police arriving at the scene around 4:30 a.m.
The vehicle involved in the incident fled the scene but was later located in the Quebec City region around 5:30 a.m. Subsequently, a man in his twenties was apprehended by law enforcement and is currently undergoing questioning by investigators.
The injured victims were promptly taken to the hospital to receive treatment for their various injuries, the severity of which is still undetermined. The town is currently hosting the popular Festival Western de St-Tite, where three Quebec political leaders are scheduled to visit today as part of their campaign efforts.
Despite the unfortunate incident earlier in the day, festival organizers have confirmed that Saturday’s events will proceed as planned. They expressed their sympathies for those affected and emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of all festival attendees, volunteers, and staff.
As investigations continue, Saint-Joseph Boulevard will remain closed to vehicular traffic between Du Couvent and Moulin Streets throughout most of Saturday to facilitate the investigative process. The incident coincided with the anticipated attendance of three Quebec party leaders at the festival, namely the Quebec Liberals (PLQ), Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), and the Parti Québécois (PQ).
CAQ Leader Christine Fréchette conveyed her condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the importance of determining the causes behind the incident. Similarly, PQ Leader Pierre St-Pierre Plamondon extended his sympathies to the injured individuals and praised the swift response of the first responders in ensuring the safety and well-being of Quebecers attending public events.