BC Highway Patrol continuing investigation of fatal crash near Cranbrook

Cranbrook RCMP and BC Highway Patrol are releasing details regarding last week’s fatal collision on Highway 3 about 20 km east of Cranbrook.

Police say a logging truck was traveling westbound on June 1 around 8:00 am when it experienced a mechanical failure and caused it to cross the centre line into eastbound traffic, striking a Chevy Suburban.

The three occupants of the Chevy Suburban were pronounced deceased at the scene while the logging truck driver was brought to hospital with serious injuries.

The BC Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the incident with engagement from Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Services, Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement and Worksafe BC.

Find more information from RCMP below:

On June 1, 2023 at approximately 8:00am, Cranbrook RCMP and BCHP – Cranbrook attended a report of a fatal collision involving two passenger vehicles and a commercial vehicle on Highway 3/93 approximately 20 kilometres east of Cranbrook. BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS), BC Coroner’s Service, Fire Rescue, Worksafe BC, Ministry of Transportation and Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement (CVSE) were also in attendance.

Initial investigation has determined that a loaded logging truck was traveling westbound on Highway 3/93 when it experienced a mechanical failure which caused it to cross the centre line into eastbound traffic, striking a Chevrolet Suburban. A third vehicle took evasive maneuvers, and went off the roadway.

Tragically, the three occupants of the Chevrolet Suburban were pronounced deceased at the scene and the driver of the logging truck was transported to hospital with serious injuries. Highway 3/93 was closed for investigation however was re-opened by early evening.

BC Highway Patrol – Cranbrook has conduct of the investigation with engagement from Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Services (BCHP – CARS), Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement and Worksafe BC. No further details regarding the occupants of the vehicles are being released at this time. All avenues of investigation are being considered.

Anyone who may have information, including motorists who may have witnessed this collision or have dash cam video are asked to contact BCHP – Cranbrook at 250-420-4244.

– Article includes statement from RCMP/BC Highway Patrol