Early-morning collision on Alaska Highway claims one life

TAYLOR, B.C. — The RCMP has confirmed the death of one driver in an accident that occurred between Taylor and Dawson Creek on the Alaska Highway early this morning.

Around 4:30 a.m., a tractor trailer unit and a pickup truck collided near the 228 road. Peace Region Traffic Services says the driver of the pickup truck has died, and the driver of the tractor trailer unit was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

The identity of the deceased has not been released, and an investigation has been launched into the cause of the collision — which the Dawson Creek RCMP, South Peace Traffic Services and B.C. Coroner Service are conducting currently.

The Alaska Highway will remain closed both ways as an investigation gets underway. It is estimated the highway will reopen around 12:30 p.m.. Drive BC says a detour in place for light vehicles via 226 road, 230 road, and 243 road, and detour for heavy traffic is via Highway 29N.

More updates will come as more information comes to light, and efforts are being made to open the highway again as son as possible.