Prince George, B.C. – RCMP are just releasing information about a deadly collision between a sports utility vehicle and a tractor-trailer unit that claimed the lives of a family of four, on Highway 5 just north of Barriere last night.

Central Interior Traffic Services Staff-Sergeant Steve Frayne says a preliminary investigation indicates the SUV lost control and crossed the centre-line into the oncoming tractor-trailer.

Frayne says all four occupants in the SUV died as a result of the crash – a 47-year-old man, 37-year-old woman, a seven-year-old boy and a three-year-old girl.  The family had apparently been en route from Edmonton to California.  No further information is being released at this time, pending notification of next of kin.

The driver of the truck received minor injuries.

The Staff-Sergeant says road conditions were icy at the time.  "It is a devastating reminder for drivers to exercise caution on roadways and to ensure their vehicles are prepared for the winter conditions."

Highway 5 is once again open to traffic.