UPDATE Sunday:
The victim has been identified on social media as Ruth Blencoe.
Ms. Blencoe ran a dance studio in the Vernon area, and was well known for her coaching on the annual fundraiser Dancing with the Vernon Stars.
The list of tributes on social media has been long, including this one:
“There is so much heartache in this community right now with the loss of a wonderful woman who did so much for others….Ruth Blencoe thank you for touching our lives.”
Police have not released any other details about the crash, saying the cause is still under investigation.
Two other people were taken to hospital.
Update 3 pm
This morning’s crash in Spallumcheen has claimed a life.
Two vehicles were involved on Highway 97A near the Industrial Park turnoff, with both drivers and one passenger taken to hospital.
Police have now confirmed one person has died of the injuries suffered, with no other other details provided.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, but it was snowing at the time.
The highway was closed for several hours.
UPDATE 12:30 pm
Highway 97A has reopened.
UPDATE 11 am
Three people were injured in a highway crash in Spallumcheen this morning.
“RCMP are currently on scene at a serious motor vehicle collision involving two vehicles located on Highway 97A and Pleasant Valley Road, ” says an RCMP news release.
Constable Kelly Brett says the highway remains closed in both directions and estimated time of re-opening is not known.
“RCMP Collision Analysts are currently on scene at this time. Two drivers and one passenger have all been transported to the nearest medical facility, with one person in critical condition.”
Brett says the cause of the collision is not known.
“Further information regarding the collision will not be released at this time, however for updates on road closures please visit www.drivebc.ca.”
Brett says motorists are reminded to drive according to weather conditions; slow down, take your time and ensure you have the proper winter driving tires.
UPDATE 10:30 am
Highway 97A is closed in both directions in Spallumcheen due to a crash.
Police have yet to release details, but two vehicles crashed near the Industrial Site turnoff around 8 this morning.
One car ended up in the ditch and another was on the highway.
Fire Rescue says three people were taken to hospital.
The highway is closed with vehicles being detoured on Pleasant Valley Road.
Drive BC says its next update will be at noon.
9 am
Traffic is at a standstill on Highway 97A in Spallumcheen.
Early reports indicate a two car accident at Westridge Rock shop at the Industrial site turn off.
Several emergency vehicles are on scene as one car is in the ditch and another is in the middle of the highway.
No word yet on any injuries but Beach Radio News will have more information as it becomes available.
