(Image Credit: Roger White/Q101 Merritt)

By Roger White-Q101 Merritt

Downtown Crash

Alcohol a contributing factor into early morning crash into Merritt business

Mar 17, 2026 | 7:00 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — Merritt RCMP are continuing their investigation into an early morning crash involving a truck and the front of a downtown business early Saturday (March 14) morning. 

Merritt RCMP S/Sgt. Josh Roda confirmed to Q101 Merritt on Monday that alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash. 

In a news release, Roda says that Merritt frontline officers were called to the incident at Stoyoma Dental Clinic, located at 2088 Quilchena Ave., at approximately 2:23 a.m. on Saturday, after a truck drove through the front of the building. 

Roda said the driver remained at the scene of the accident and was detained for impaired driving. The driver subsequently provided a breath sample and registered a “fail” on an approved screening device. 

As a result, the driver was issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition. The vehicle was towed and was impounded for 30 days. 

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“This incident underscores the importance of arranging a safe ride home when you choose to consume alcohol,” Roda says. “The driver is fortunate no one was injured.” 

Despite the damage to the business, Stoyoma Dental Clinic reopened for business on Monday as usual. Those with appointments can use the front entrance. 

Roda added that anyone with information who has not yet spoken with police is asked to contact Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.