Police lay charges in hit-and-run collision that injured officer

Edmonton Police officer on duty (Photo Credits - EPS)

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has charged two Edmonton men in relation to a September 2022 hit-and-run collision that injured a police officer.

Following an extensive investigation and assistance from several witnesses, police identified the rider as Dominic Di Cesare, 20, and on Friday, July 7, 2023, he was arrested and charged with dangerous operation causing bodily harm, failing to stop after an accident resulting in bodily harm, flight from a peace officer and obstruct a peace officer.

Officers also charged a second man, Alejandro Di Cesare, 58, with failing to stop after an accident resulting in bodily harm and obstruct justice for his alleged involvement in the investigation.

Both men, who are related, have since been released from police custody on an Appearance Notice and are expected in court on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023.

The injured officer continues to recover.

“Failing to remain at the scene of a collision, in particular when someone is injured, is a serious offence and we are pleased we were able to lay charges in this hit-and-run,” says Sergeant Travis Cruise with the EPS Major Collision Investigations Section. “The EPS would like to once again thank the media and the public for helping us conclude this investigation.”

Background
At approximately 7:15 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022, EPS Major Collision Investigations Section officers were conducting traffic enforcement in a construction zone in the area of Terwillegar Drive northbound and 37 Avenue when a police officer was struck by a red Honda motorcycle. The officer was attempting to direct the motorcycle to pull over when he was hit. The motorcycle then narrowly missed striking a second officer and fled the scene northbound on Terwillegar Drive.

EMS responded, treated and transported the officer to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Photos of the motorcycle, described as a red 2005-2006 Honda CBR 600RR with gold rims, were released to the public and anyone with information was asked to contact police. Speed was considered a factor in this collision.