By Corey Fischer

Update: One Dead In Highway Crash

Jan 19, 2018 | 7:27 PM

RCMP say one person died in a crash that has closed both directions at Highway 97 north of Vernon.

“Shortly after 4 pm, the Vernon RCMP North Okanagan Traffic Services responded to a three vehicle collision located at Highway 97 and Meadow Lark Road, says Constable Kelly Brett. “RCMP remains on scene and the investigation is still the early stages. It is confirmed that one person has died as a result of the collision.”

Brett says the cause of the collision has not yet been determined and no further details in regards to the parties involved are being released at this time, pending next of kin notification.

As of 7 pm Highway 97 remains closed for scene examination and investigation. Traffic is being diverted to an alternate route using Old Kamloops Road and Pleasant Valley Road.

“RCMP is asking for patience from the motoring public while the investigation continues into this tragic incident,” adds Brett.

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It’s the third fatal crash in the North Okanagan this week after others in Spallumcheen and Westwold on Tuesday.

Drive BC says Hwy 97 is closed in both directions 1 km north of Vernon because of Vehicle Incident. Detour Northbound Stickle Rd. to Pleasant Valley Rd. and Detour Southbound Elmwood Rd. to Pleasant Valley Rd. Estimated Time of Opening 11:00 pm. Next Update 11:00 pm.

Update 5 pm:

Highway 97 north of Vernon has been closed due to an accident.

Witnesses say a truck and a van were involved near Meadowlark Road just after 4 o’ clock.

Northbound traffic is being detoured onto Stickle and Pleasant Valley Roads.

Southbound is diverted to Elmwood Rd. and Pleasant Valley Rd.

A resident on PV Road say it is jammed with vehicles and people are asked not to drive to or from Swan Lake unless they absolutely have to.

Vehicles can also use Old Kamloops Road.

Drive BC says the highway could be closed until 11 tonight.

Police have not issued any details so far.

Update: 4:35 pm:

The highway is being closed for the accident, with northbound traffic being detoured onto Stickle Road and Pleasant Valley Road.

Emergency crews are responding to a crash on Highway 97 north of Vernon.