The northbound lanes of the Trans Canada Highway near Ladysmith are closed Saturday afternoon following a serious multi-vehicle crash.
The incident occurred around 8 a.m. in the northbound lanes of HWY 1 at Oyster Sto-Lo Road.
In a release, Ladysmith RCMP confirmed they are investigating a collision that claimed one person’s life and are seeking the whereabouts of the driver of the suspect vehicle.
Emergency crews were called to multi-vehicle collision on the Trans Canada Highway near Oyster Stolo.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers found a southbound F150 truck had gone over the high center median and collided with a northbound SUV. A truck and trailer, which narrowly missed the collision remains at the scene.
The driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver of the F150 fled on foot and is believed to stolen another vehicle near the scene.
His whereabouts is currently unknown.
Investigators are extremely concerned about the F150 driver’s well-being as he was involved in a high speed collision, and evidence at the scene suggests he is injured, states Staff Sergeant Janelle Shoihet of the BC RCMP.
A traffic reconstructionist has been called to assist in the investigation, and is working to determine the cause of the collision, which remains unknown at this time. Traffic flow is limited to single lane in each direction, drivers are asked to avoid the area.
The identity of the deceased person has not been released.
If you were a witness to this collision and have not already spoken to police, you are urged to call SIVTS at 250-416-0352.
Drive BC posted a tweet stating the northbound lanes could be closed for up to five hours.
A detour has been set up.
