Bonavista RCMP conducts NYE checkstop, arrests drug impaired driver New Year’s Day

January 2, 2026 - Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

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Bonavista RCMP set up a New Year’s Eve checkstop along Route 230, checking dozens of vehicles between Elliston and Little Catalina. The following day, officers arrested a 35-year-old man for impaired operation after a report from a concerned citizen.

On December 31, 2025, Clarenville-Bonavista District RCMP conducted a checkstop along Route 230 in search of dangerous and impaired drivers. More than 30 vehicles were checked by police, and as many as 16 drivers were compelled to provide roadside breath samples, and no infractions were reported.

RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador thank all motorists who complied with criminal and traffic laws and helped make the roadways safer over the holidays.

Just after 11:00 a.m. on New Year’s Day, Bonavista RCMP responded to a report from a passerby who spotted an unknown male, possibly unconscious or in distress, behind the wheel of a parked vehicle in Port Union.

Bonavista RCMP located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. The driver — a 35-year-old man — showed signs of impairment and was found in possession of a controlled substance and contraband tobacco.

The man was arrested for impaired operation and transported to hospital in Bonavista for collection of a blood sample.

Police are now waiting on the results of the blood test to assess if charges of impaired operation are appropriate.

Operating any vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a reckless choice that can have deadly consequences. If you suspect a driver is operating a vehicle while impaired, please call 911.

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