Four Firefighters Dead after Devastating Crash

WALHACHIN — Four firefighters are dead after a two-vehicle collision 1 km west of Juniper Beach Provincial Park, on Highway 1, near Walhachin, BC.

A semi-tractor trailer had caught on fire after the crash. The driver of the semi-truck was able to escape before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. All four firefighters in the second vehicle, a Ford F-350 pick-up truck, succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Initial investigation determined the pick-up truck failed to navigate a bend in the road to the right, crossing the center line and colliding with the semi truck head on.

“Tragically, the four individuals have been identified as BC Wildfire Service sub-contractors who were traveling home from assisting with fire suppression efforts”, says Cpl. James Grandy, spokesperson for the BC RCMP Southeast District. “This year has been particularly challenging for the BC Wildfire Service, with several of its members facing injuries or losing their lives. Our thoughts are with the friends and family of those who help keep our Province safe”.

Highway 1 was closed in both directions for the investigation, the highway has since reopened. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the collision. Assistance is provided by both the BC Coroner Service and BC Highway Patrol’s Collision Reconstructionist.