Two individuals have been charged after police received a report of a man sitting in the back of an open hatchback vehicle traveling on a Nova Scotia highway. The incident occurred on Highway 105 in Cape Breton, according to the Nova Scotia RCMP.
Details of the incident
On July 3, 2026, at approximately 2:30 p.m., police received a complaint about a Mazda3 hatchback with its rear hatch open while in motion. A man was observed sitting in the cargo area, with his legs dangling outside the vehicle. The car was traveling eastbound near the Exit 4 ramp in Eskasoni.
Police located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The driver, a 25-year-old man from Potlotek, was charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle. The passenger, a 28-year-old man also from Potlotek, was charged with occupying a trailer or a portion of a vehicle not intended for passengers. Both are scheduled to appear in Sydney Provincial Court at a later date.
Safety concerns and legal implications
RCMP Constable Ryan MacLeod emphasized the danger of such behavior. “Sitting in an open hatchback while the vehicle is moving is extremely reckless and puts the individual and others on the road at risk,” he said. “We are fortunate that no one was injured.”
The vehicle was impounded for 30 days, and both individuals were released from custody pending their court appearance. The charges highlight the serious consequences of disregarding passenger safety regulations under the Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Act.
Public response
The incident has drawn attention on social media, with many users expressing shock at the brazen act. The RCMP thanked the public for reporting the incident promptly, which allowed officers to intervene before any harm occurred.
