One dead in two-semi collision on Okanagan Connector

Jun 17, 2021 | 11:55 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — A commercial truck driver died in a crash near Merritt Wednesday night (June 16).

RCMP say the collision took place along Okanagan Connector near the Loon Lake exit just after 9:00 p.m.

Investigators believe a fully loaded B-train lumber truck was parked and awaiting a tow truck after experiencing mechanical problems, the driver no longer inside.

According to Southeast District RCMP spokesman Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, the truck was struck from behind by another semi.

The driver of the second commercial truck was pronounced dead at the scene. O’Donaghey says emergency responders could not get the driver out before the truck burst into flames.

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The fire spread into the lumber truck as well, and RCMP monitored it overnight to ensure it did not spread to the nearby vegetation. The spot of the crash is outside any fire protection area. This is not the same event as the Hamilton Hill wildfire, which ignited Wednesday closer to the community of Merritt.

Merritt RCMP, B.C. Highway Patrol and the B.C. Coroners Service are investigating.

Westbound lanes of the highway remain closed through the morning Thursday. Motorists are asked to check Drive B.C. for further updates.

by James Peters

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