Swift journey across Canada-U.S. border turns into a fentanyl disaster for Alberta resident
Krisztian Riez, a Calgary resident, recently found himself in a harrowing situation when he was detained at the U.S. border due to traces of fentanyl found in the rental vehicle he was driving. The vehicle, a minivan rented from Turo, a popular peer-to-peer rental company, had been thoroughly cleaned before being re-listed, according to records and the vehicle's owner's confirmation.
Riez, who was travelling with his family, was detained for several hours of questioning. The CBSA officer suggested that Riez's goddaughter, who was supposed to join them but was sick with the flu, might have been in danger due to the fentanyl traces. Riez was eventually released, with the CBSA attributing the contamination to a previous user of the minivan.
Following the incident, Riez contacted Turo upon returning to Calgary. The company conducted a thorough investigation of the matter and found no evidence to support Riez's allegations of fentanyl in the vehicle. Turo emphasized their safety standards and cleaning protocols, stating that such claims are rare or unprecedented for the platform.
Riez, however, continues the fight to create awareness due to the potential harm to his goddaughter and his own children. He has reached out to lawmakers on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border in hopes of preventing others from being caught up in a similar situation.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance due to risks at international borders where drug traces can lead to detainment, even if the renter is unaware of prior contamination. Consumers should demand transparency and thorough cleaning from rental services to minimize such risks.
When renting vehicles, especially from peer-to-peer services like Turo, the following precautions are advisable:
- Inspect the vehicle thoroughly: Check interiors for cleanliness and any suspicious residues or odors before completing the rental agreement.
- Request evidence of cleaning and safety protocols: Ask the rental company or owner about their cleaning procedures, particularly regarding drug contamination.
- Document the vehicle's condition: Take photos or videos at pickup and drop-off to have records of the vehicle's state.
- Choose reputable listings with strong reviews: Prefer cars with verified owners and positive renter feedback.
- Report any concerns immediately: If anything suspicious is found, notify the rental platform and, if crossing borders, customs or border protection agents.
Mary O'Sullivan-Andersen, vice-president of the Better Business Bureau in Alberta, advises consumers to do their own research and due diligence before renting from companies like Turo.
While a notable case has drawn attention to fentanyl traces in rental cars at international borders, this is not reported as a widespread trend. However, renters should exercise careful inspection and choose trusted providers to protect themselves from potential exposure or legal complications.
Riez's ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased awareness and action in the peer-to-peer rental industry, particularly at international borders. As consumers, it is our responsibility to prioritise safety and due diligence when renting vehicles to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
- In the realm of health and wellness, it's crucial for consumers to prioritize thorough inspections and proper cleaning procedures when renting vehicles, especially from platforms like Turo, to safeguard against potential medical-conditions risks such as fentanyl contamination.
- General news outlets and medical-condition advocates should highlight the importance of vigilance at international borders, where hidden drug traces in rental cars can lead to detainment and harrowing situations for unsuspecting renters, as demonstrated in Krisztian Riez's case.
