Clearwater RCMP Traffic Services report that on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at approximately 1:35 a.m., members of the Southeast District RCMP Traffic Services and the Clearwater RCMP responded to a report of a two-vehicle crash located on Highway approximately nine km north of Avola.
Upon the arrival of the police at the scene, members ascertained that a southbound van had crossed the center line and struck a northbound commercial tractor trailer unit.
There were two occupants in the van at the time, a 33-year-old female and her 44-year-old husband. Both were residents of Hinton, Alberta.
Unfortunately, the female driver died immediately at the scene from the injuries she sustained during the crash
The male passenger was transported to the Clearwater hospital for non-life threatening injuries. He was later transported to Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops for further treatment and observations.
At this point in time, drugs and alcohol are not suspected as contributing factors in this crash. Road conditions at the time were also considered dry and in good condition. From the preliminary investigation, it is suspected that the female driver of the van may have fallen asleep, prior to crashing into the commercial tractor-trailer unit.
At this point in time, the police are not releasing the name of those involved as next-of-kin have yet to be notified.
A Southeast District RCMP collision reconstructionist attended the scene assisting with the investigation. The local coroner also attended and is leading this investigation. The investigation will continue into the cause of this tragic incident.
RCMP remind the motoring public that winter driving conditions are upon us and every driver needs to transition to the pending change in weather conditions. Although it is not suspected to be a factor relating to this crash, drivers are reminded that the best action to ensure better traction in winter road conditions is to equip your vehicle with appropriate winter tires that show the snow flake and/or mountain symbols on the tire.
As well, if you are traveling for a considerable distance and feel tired, please pull over to rest or, if possible, switch drivers.