The  RCMP investigation determined a pickup truck traveling southbound drifted into the fast lane, crossed the centre line and collided with the rear trailer unit of a north bound semi truck and tandem trailer.  This caused a secondary collision involving a southbound passenger car.   

 

The 66 year old male driver of the pickup truck succumbed to his injuries and died enroute to the hospital.  Occupants of the passenger car were transported to Quesnel’s G.R. Baker Hospital where they were treated for minor, non life threatening injuries and later released.  The semi truck driver was examined by BC Ambulance Services on scene and did not require further medical treatment.

 

Highway 97 remained closed to all traffic for close to four hours as a Collision Reconstructionist and other traffic investigators conducted the investigation.  The cause of this crash remains under investigation by Members of the Cariboo Chilcotin Traffic Services. 

 

Alcohol and speed are NOT believed to be contributing factors in this collision.

 

The name of the deceased is not being released pending notification of next of kin.

 

RCMP would like to commend the Good Samaritans who stopped to perform first aid to the male prior to the arrival of emergency personnel as well as BC Ambulance Services and Highway Rescue for their quick and professional response.