Four dead in crash near Monte Lake

MONTE LAKE, B.C. — RCMP say four people died in a two-vehicle collision near Monte Lake Tuesday morning.

Police received multiple calls about the crash in the 3800-block of Highway 97 near Monte Lake just before 9:00 a.m. on Jan. 16.

“Frontline officers from the BC Highway Patrol and Vernon North Okanagan RCMP responded and from the initial investigation determined the two involved vehicles had collided head-on. Four people, including the drivers of both vehicles, were declared deceased at the scene,” Const. Chris Terleski, media relations officer, said.

A fifth person was airlifted from the scene by BC Emergency Health Services in critical condition.

“This is a terrible tragedy and our most heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” Terleski said. “Our thoughts are also with the first responders and members of the public impacted by this event.”

Terleski said no other details are being released at this time as they are still confirming the identity of the deceased and in the process of notifying the next of kin.

Highway 97 is now open to single alternating traffic and motorists may experience disruptions as police continue their investigation at the scene.