One dead in collision

Photo: DriveBC

UPDATE: 10:19 a.m.

One person is dead after a collision north of Falkland that occured yesterday evening. 

On Tuesday at about 5:40 pm, the Vernon North Okanagan Rural RCMP and the North Okanagan RCMP Traffic Services were called to the scene of a collision on Highway 97, south of Westwold, B.C., involving two compact vehicles.

"At the time of the collision, road conditions were poor and may have been a factor, however the North Okanagan Traffic Services has assumed lead in the investigation and cause of the collision is still yet to be determined," said Const. Kelly Brett. "The highway was closed for approximately five hours while the collision analysts conducted their investigation. Vehicles have since been cleared and the highway is open."

The driver of one of the vehicles, a 32-year-old male from Nelson, died as a result of the collision.

The other driver was transported by BC Ambulance Services to the nearest medical facility for what appears to be minor injuries.

The North Okanagan Traffic Services is seeking any witness information in relation to the collision that occurred. If you witnessed the collision please call Const. Dobbernigg of the North Okanagan Traffic Services at 250-545-7171.

The incident remains underinvestigation.

UPDATE: Wednesday 5:40 a.m.

DriveBC reports Highway 97 reopened north of Falkland at 11:30 p.m. overnight.

ORIGINAL: Tuesday 7 p.m.

Highway 97 north of Falkland is closed in both directions because of an accident.

DriveBC is reporting the accident happened 10 km north of the community.

An assessment of the situation is in progress and no detour is available.

The estimated time the road will reopen is 8:30 p.m.