Vancouver Island man charged in hit-and-run that killed 17-year-old girl

A 28-year-old man from the Cowichan Valley has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run earlier this year that claimed the life of a teenage girl in Duncan.

North Cowichan–Duncan RCMP said the man is facing one count of failing to stop at the scene of an accident causing death. The charge was approved by the B.C. Prosecution Service following what investigators described as a lengthy and complex investigation.

Police were called to the Trans-Canada Highway near Duncan on April 18, where they discovered a 17-year-old girl dead at the scene. The suspect vehicle was not found at the time, prompting an extensive search and forensic review.

Mounties have not released the accused’s name as the charge has just been sworn in court. He is scheduled to make his first appearance on October 15.