One fatality confirmed after accident on the Coquihalla

MERRITT — The Merritt RCMP have confirmed in a news release a driver has died after a collision on the Coquihalla between a truck and a semi.

The RCMP want to remind everyone to slow down and drive to the conditions.

On January 8, 2024, the Merritt RCMP were alerted to a collision on the Coquihalla Highway, approximately 45 kilometers South of Merritt.

A Ford F150 traveling Southbound, crossed the center median ditch and went into oncoming traffic.

The F150 struck a Semi Truck and trailer heading Northbound in the slow lane. The driver of the F150 was declared deceased at the scene and the passenger was airlifted to hospital. The driver of the Semi Truck sustained minor injuries.

“We are still investigating the exact cause of the collision. Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased”, says Staff Sgt. Josh Roda.

“We want to remind the public to slow down and drive to the conditions this winter. The conditions on the Coquihalla Highway can change quickly.”

If anyone witnessed the collision or has dash camera footage and has not yet spoken to police, please call the Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.

People are also reminded to use DriveBC to monitor travel advisories, road closures and current conditions.