‘Extremely fortunate’ no one killed in six-vehicle crash west of Sicamous: RCMP

Jul 16, 2020 | 10:08 AM

SICAMOUS, B.C. — Police say wreckage from a six-vehicle crash that closed the Trans-Canada Highway west of Sicamous, B.C., was cleared away by Thursday. 

The RCMP in Sicamous and Salmon Arm say they responded Wednesday evening to the crash involving two semi-tractor trailers, an SUV and three pick-up trucks.

The Mounties say in a release that four people were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, including a Calgary man who was driving the westbound semi.

Police say there were heavy brake marks at the scene, and they believe the semi crossed into the oncoming lane after the driver failed to safely make a turn on the highway.

The truck flipped onto its side and skidded down the highway before striking the five other vehicles travelling eastbound.

Police say the driver has been charged with crossing a double line under the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act.

The Mounties say speed may have been a factor in the crash but there’s no evidence to suggest impaired driving was involved.

RCMP Sgt. Murray McNeil says it’s lucky no one was killed considering the extensive damage to each vehicle and the length the semi travelled before coming to a stop.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 16, 2020.

The Canadian Press