Clarenville — RCMP NL announces charges laid in investigation of double fatal collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Criminal charges have been laid by Clarenville RCMP against 71-year-old Austin Deir of Mount Pearl in relation to a fatal collision that claimed the lives of two young women. The collision occurred on the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) on January 21, 2024.

On the afternoon of January 21, police responded to a head-on collision on the TCH near Arnold’s Cove. Two occupants of one of the vehicles died as a result of the collision: a 22-year-old passenger who died at the scene and a 22-year-old driver who died a week later in hospital.

As a result of the police investigation, which was assisted by RCMP NL’s East District General Investigation Section, the driver of the other vehicle, Deir, is charged with the following criminal offences:

  • Impaired operation causing death – two counts
  • Dangerous operation causing death – two counts

Charges were sworn on July 18, 2024. Deir is set to appear in court on September 26, 2024.

RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Background links:

Clarenville RCMP investigates fatal collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove, impaired driving investigation underway

Clarenville RCMP reports second fatality as a result of collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove; investigation continues | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

Update: Blood sample of driver involved in double fatal collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove processed by RCMP Forensic Assessment Centre | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)