Traffic Resumes Following Serious Morning Incident

Four people were hospitalized, including three in critical condition, after a motor vehicle incident occurred north of Merritt on Saturday morning, October 17.

DriveBC reported that the Coquihalla Highway was reopened in both directions from Exit 290 to Exit 315 at approximately 4:00 p.m., following the earlier closure.

Emergency Responders Deploy Air Ambulances

BC Emergency Health Services dispatched multiple resources after receiving a call at approximately 8:35 a.m. The response included two air ambulances, three primary care paramedic ambulances, one advanced care paramedic ambulance, and a paramedic supervisor.

According to BCEHS, crews provided emergency medical care at the scene. Two of the three critically injured patients were flown to the hospital via air ambulance, while a fourth patient was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

Investigation Underway After Body Discovered in Central Saanich

Major crime investigators are requesting assistance from the public to determine the identity of a woman whose body was located at a Central Saanich waste disposal site on the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 13.

After local officers initially responded to the scene, the Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit assumed leadership of the ongoing probe with support from Central Saanich police.

Physical Description Released by Authorities

The deceased individual is described as a woman in her 30s, standing approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall with a heavy build. She has brown hair featuring blonde highlights, as well as a distinct horizontal scar located on the inner side of her right forearm. Authorities noted that her race remains undetermined.

Anyone possessing information regarding the woman’s identity or who recognizes the provided description is asked to contact the VIIMCU information line at 250-380-6211.

Third Victim Passes Away Following Collision

A tragic incident outside the Tsawwassen Mills mall on Sept. 30 has now claimed a third life. Delta police confirmed that 64-year-old Gwenyth Brigit Dwyn, a resident of South Delta, B.C., has passed away from injuries sustained when a pickup truck collided with pedestrians.

The crash initially killed two Tsawwassen First Nation elders at the scene, identified in social media statements by the nation as Virginia Splockton and wilapiya, also known as Barb Joe. A fourth victim injured during the incident has since been discharged from the hospital.

Investigation Into Driver and Cause Ongoing

The deadly collision occurred as the Tsawwassen First Nation was hosting a Truth and Reconciliation Day community walk, where attendees were gathering near the mall entrance for the unveiling of four traditional carvings. Authorities are still examining what caused the vehicle to strike the crowd.

Investigators are assessing whether the truck driver suffered a medical emergency prior to the crash. Delta police noted there is currently no evidence indicating the collision was intentional or motivated by ideology. Potential criminal charges will be submitted to prosecutors for evaluation if supported by evidence.

“We understand that the community has questions and wants answers about what occurred,” said Delta police Staff Sgt. Mike Whiteley in a statement. “Our responsibility is to ensure those answers are based on a complete and objective examination of the evidence. Investigators are working through a significant amount of information, and it is important that we not reach conclusions before that work is complete.”