Wednesday morning’s accident that ended in the closure of the Broadway Bridge was the result of a police chase.

At about 1:40, patrol officers spotted a suspicious vehicle in the area of 17th Street and Avenue N. The registered owner had outstanding criminal code warrants. Officers tried to conduct a traffic stop but the vehicle fled toward downtown, traveling up the Broadway Bridge. Near Saskatchewan Crescent, officers deployed stop sticks; however, in avoiding them, the vehicle struck a light standard before coming to a stop.

The Fire Department was called out and used hydraulic cutting tools to get the occupants out. They also had to de-energize the scene as a light standard had fallen on top of the vehicle.
While that was happening, fire paramedics treated the driver inside the vehicle and removed the passenger. Both patients, aged 26 and 33, were taken to hospital by ambulance crews. Police say they had serious but not life-threatening injuries.

Saskatoon Light and Power was on scene and ensured there were no electrical hazards to first responders as a result of the downed street light.

Westbound lanes were first to re-open. Eastbound lane restrictions were expected to be fully lifted at 9:30.