A Surrey man has been charged in connection to a crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian in early 2022.
A New Westminster man was struck at Royal Avenue and Fourth Street about 5:45 a.m. on Jan. 20, 2022. The pedestrian, now identified as Eric Stonehouse, later died of his injuries.
“Eric brought out the best in people by making those around him feel special and valued,” said his mother, Giselle Stonehouse, in a press release from the New Westminster Police Department. “He is greatly loved and missed.”
According to the NWPD, Patrol officers, the forensic identification unit, the collision analysis reconstruction team and the traffic unit assisted in this “lengthy and thorough” investigation into the cause of a motor vehicle collision that resulted in the death of a pedestrian.
“Eric was very well known in the community, and I want to again offer our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time,” said Deputy Chief Const. Paul Hyland. “I also want to thank all the investigators who worked diligently on this investigation to bring it to the charge approval stage, and our victim assistance unit staff who have provided support throughout the process.”
At the time of the incident, police stated that the driver of the vehicle had remained on scene and was cooperating with police.
On Jan. 16, 2023, Crown counsel approved one charge of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death against 37-year-old Francisco Brooks. The accused is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 6.
