A 24-year-old man who died when his car was struck by a suspected impaired driver travelling the wrong way on the Nanaimo Parkway is being remembered as a kind and caring member of his Nanaimo soccer club.
Nanaimo United FC issued a statement on Facebook mourning the death of Reid Davidson.
“It is with profound sadness that we share news of Reid’s passing,” the club said. “One of the kindest and most selfless people you could ever wish to meet has left us and we will forever miss him in our lives.”
Davidson was driving a Toyota Yaris about 10 p.m. Wednesday near the Cedar overpass when it was hit by a Dodge Caravan heading south in the northbound lanes.
“Reid has been a huge part of our club for several years, where he brought genuine warmth and care as a valued member of staff, as well as being a fierce competitor on the field,” the club said.
The club said Davidson played for Vancouver Island University before serving as captain of Nanaimo United’s Division 2 team when it won the league title in February — scoring the clinching goal on a penalty shot.
“Our hearts are broken, but the soccer community has a way of coming together at times like these, and with that in mind we will dedicate our Harbourside men’s and women’s games this Sunday to the memory of Reid. We hope you can join us to celebrate one of the best people we’ve ever known.”
The 59-year-old van driver suffered serious injuries and remains in hospital. Witnesses said he tried to run away after the crash, but officers found him a short distance away with the help of a police dog.
“Our sincere thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” said Reserve Const. Gary O’Brien.
The investigation is continuing and police are asking anyone with dashcam video of the collision or prior video of the van to call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.
>>> To comment on this article, write a letter to the editor: [email protected]
