Fatal collision investigation ongoing

More resources are being used to investigate a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 97A Friday that left one person dead and two critically injured.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP say the collision occurred at approximately 5:15 p.m. Friday near Stepney Cross Road south of Enderby.

The highway was closed for approximately seven hours following the collision as emergency personnel worked the scene.

A member of the RCMP Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Services attended the scene and completed a detailed examination at the time.

The initial investigation determined that the collision was a chain reaction triggered by a northbound Honda Prelude that crossed the centre line. The Honda struck another passenger vehicle heading south, then collided head on with a GMC Jimmy. After coming to a rest, the GMC was then broadsided by a pick-up truck.

The driver of the GMC Jimmy was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The passenger of the GMC and the driver of the Honda were transported to hospital for treatment of serious, life-threatening injuries. They remain in hospital in critical condition.

The on going investigation into the collision is now being supported by the RCMP Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Services and the B.C. Coroners Service.

“While the factors leading to the collision are still under investigation, a dense fog that settled in the area had reduced visibility to nearly zero at the time of the crash,” stated Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased and those injured in this terrible collision.”