On July 4, at approximately 1:45 p.m., Cranbrook RCMP, BC Highway Patrol, and BC Highway Patrol’s Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Services (BCHP CARS) attended a report of a collision involving a commercial semi-truck and a SUV on Highway 3/93 near Wardner.

Personnel from Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement (CVSE), Ministry of Transportation, Fire Rescue, and BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) were also in attendance.

Initial investigation suggests that a white pickup truck slowed in the eastbound lane to overtake two bicyclists. A semi-truck following the white pickup attempted unsuccessfully to brake and entered the westbound lane, striking a westbound SUV, BC Highway Patrol reported.

The driver of the SUV was transported to hospital with life threatening injuries, while the passenger of the SUV sustained minor injuries.

The driver of the semi-truck was treated on scene and is cooperating with police. Highway 3/93 was closed in both directions during the investigation but has since reopened.

BC Highway Patrol – Cranbrook has conduct of the investigation. While all causal factors are being investigated, possible mechanical failure has not been ruled out. The investigation is in the very early stages and information is subject to change. No further details on the occupants of the vehicles are being released at this time, police said.

BC Highway Patrol – Cranbrook is actively seeking the driver of the white pickup truck, as well as anyone who may have information or dash cam video of the incident. Witnesses are asked to contact BCHP – Cranbrook at 250-420-4244.

Lead image: Traffic was detoured down Wardner-Fort Steele Road during the initial investigation. Carrie Schafer/e-KNOW photo

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