RCMP officers in Prince George made an unusual arrest on Friday morning after encountering a man allegedly impaired while driving a pink toy Barbie truck through city streets during rush hour.
The incident occurred around 9 a.m. on September 5, when officers noticed the man driving the battery-powered toy vehicle – resembling a Power Wheels Barbie Jeep Wrangler – in traffic. Police say the toy truck, which can reach speeds of up to eight kilometres per hour, posed a safety risk as other drivers were forced to maneuver around it.
Upon stopping the vehicle, officers discovered the driver had a suspended license. Breathalyzer tests were administered, with two samples showing he was over the legal alcohol limit. The man was subsequently arrested for prohibited driving, issued a 90-day driving suspension, and is scheduled to appear in court in December.
RCMP reminded the public that under B.C. law, any vehicle powered by more than human effort qualifies as a motor vehicle and requires both a valid driver’s license and insurance.
“Even though this was a children’s toy truck, the law is clear — impaired driving in any motorized vehicle puts lives at risk,” police said in a statement.
The manufacturer of the Barbie Jeep, Fisher-Price, notes the toy is marketed for children and comes with power brakes and steering.
While the unusual traffic stop drew attention online after RCMP released photos, police emphasized the seriousness of impaired driving and urged the public to prioritize safety on the roads.