On July 1, at 11:30 pm, 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 Mazda CX-5 and a pickup truck on Highway 3/93 near Wardner, 10 kilometres east of Cranbrook.

Personnel from BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS), BC Coroner’s Service, Fire Rescue, and Ministry of Transportation were also in attendance.

Initial investigation has determined that the Mazda CX-5 was traveling westbound on Highway 3/93 and was struck head-on by an oncoming eastbound pickup truck that had crossed the centre line.

Tragically, the driver of the Mazda CX-5 was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger of the CX-5 was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries while the driver of the pickup truck was transported to hospital with serious injuries. Highway 3/93 was closed for investigation however it has since re-opened.

BC Highway Patrol Cranbrook has conduct of the investigation. No further details regarding the occupants of the vehicles are being released at this time. While all avenues of investigation are being considered, impaired driving has not been ruled out as a causal factor.

Anyone who may have information, including motorists who may have witnessed this collision or have dash cam video are asked contact BCHP – Cranbrook at 250-420-4244.