BC NEWS, KAMLOOPS

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Police have released details of a two vehicle crash that claimed the lives of 4 wildland firefighters during the overnight Tuesday…

Police say on September 19, 2023, just before 2 am, emergency crews responded to a serious crash involving a pickup truck and a commercial transport truck on Highway 1 near Walhachin, BC, east of Cache Creek.

When emergency crews arrived on scene, the semi-tractor unit was engulfed in flames. The driver of the transport vehicle made it out before the vehicle caught fire.

The four occupants of the pickup truck, a Ford F-350, were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Initial investigation determined the pickup truck failed to navigate a bend in the road to the right, crossing the centre line and colliding with the semi truck head on.

“Tragically, the four individuals have been identified as BC Wildfire Service sub-contractors who were traveling home from assisting with fire suppression efforts”, says Cpl. James Grandy, spokesperson for the BC RCMP Southeast District. “This year has been particularly challenging for the BC Wildfire Service, with several of its members facing injuries or losing their lives. Our thoughts are with the friends and family of those who help keep our Province safe”.

Highway 1 was closed in both directions for the investigation, however has since reopened.

An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the collision. Assistance is provided by both the BC Coroner Service and BC Highway Patrol’s Collision Reconstructionist.