RCMP are looking into the possibility that a serious crash which snarled traffic for hours Thursday morning may have been due to distracted driving.

The two vehicle crash took place on Highway 97 north of Winfield shortly before 9 a.m., September 1.

A car and minivan collided head-on, trapping the occupant of the car and scattering debris across the highway.

"A southbound vehicle apparently lost control when he drifted into the ditch on the right hand side, over steered and swerved into oncoming traffic causing a head-on collision," says RCMP Const. Bob Charron.

Firefighters managed to extricate the 42-year-old male driver of the car, but Charron says he may not survive.

The Kelowna resident was not wearing a seat belt and suffered internal injuries.

"There is the possibility that he may pass away. It's being listed as a very serious crash -- and possibly a fatal."

The two occupants of the minivan both suffered minor injuries and have been released from hospital.

Charron says RCMP are looking into the possibility of electronic devices being a factor in the crash.

The highway was closed in both directions for approximately three hours as RCMP examined the scene.

Highway 97 Crash - Sept 1

Photo: Daniel Hayduk

Photo: Daniel Hayduk

Photo: Daniel Hayduk

Photo: Daniel Hayduk

Photo: Daniel Hayduk

1 2 3 4 5