A motorcyclist who allegedly drove dangerously through traffic on Highway 1, reaching speeds of up to 180 km/h and evading law enforcement officers, was arrested in Abbotsford after a coordinated response involving mulitple law enforcement agencies last week.

The Abbotsford Police Department (AbbyPD) says the incident began just after 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 28, when an RCMP Air 1 helicopter saw a motorcycle travelling eastbound on Highway 1 in Surrey.

An officer aboard the helicopter alerted the BC Highway Patrol, which attempted a traffic stop along a stretch of the highway in Langley, AbbyPD says.

The rider didn’t stop and continued “at excessive speeds,” police say, and the Air 1 helicopter kept track of his movements from the air.

“The rider continued to drive dangerously, weaving through traffic, riding on the shoulder, and entering active Highway 1 construction zones,” Abbotsford police said.

“At one point, the motorcycle struck a traffic pylon, causing the rider to nearly lose control. Despite this, the rider continued to place both themselves and other motorists at significant risk.”

AbbyPD says its officers were notified as the motorcycle approached Abbotsford. They then prepared to apprehend the rider.

“Plainclothes officers were strategically positioned to assist with the arrest,” police said.

“Air 1 continued tracking the motorcycle as it exited Highway 1 and entered Highstreet Shopping Centre.”

Police say the rider parked the motorcycle and fled on foot.

“AbbyPD officers, already in the area, quickly located and arrested the suspect without further incident,” they said.

A 20-year-old Langley man was arrested, and police are recommending charges of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, flight from police, possession of stolen property, and driving while prohibited.