Two Killed in Head-On Crash in Kootenay National Park

Two people were killed in a head-on collision on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park on Wednesday evening after a westbound vehicle crossed the centre line and struck an oncoming vehicle, RCMP say.

Columbia Valley RCMP said officers were called to the crash near Simpson Monument at about 5:36 p.m. on July 8. Police said the initial investigation determined the westbound vehicle crossed the centre line while negotiating a corner before colliding with an oncoming vehicle at highway speed.

Both vehicles were occupied only by their drivers, who were pronounced dead at the scene.

A third vehicle was involved only peripherally. RCMP said its two occupants are believed to have suffered minor injuries.

"This was a tragic incident that resulted in the loss of two lives," said Cpl. Brett Urano, RCMP spokesperson. "Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the deceased as they navigate this difficult time."

The investigation remains ongoing. RCMP said no criminality is suspected.

The crash closed Highway 93 in both directions near Simpson Monument while emergency crews and investigators processed the scene. DriveBC advised motorists to use an alternate route during the closure, which lasted until approximately 1:05 a.m. Thursday.

Columbia Valley RCMP, BC Highway Patrol, BC Emergency Health Services and local fire and rescue personnel responded to the crash. The BC Coroners Service also attended the scene.

STARS confirmed in a statement to Bow Valley Insider that its team did not respond because its helicopter and crew were already committed to another mission.

BC Emergency Health Services said it received a call at 4:43 p.m. about a motor vehicle incident on Highway 93 near the Sir George Simpson Pullout. Two ambulances staffed by primary care paramedics responded.

"Paramedics provided emergency medical care and transported one patient to hospital in serious, but stable condition," said Brian Twaites, BCEHS paramedic public information officer.