A young man has died following a vehicle crash on October 24 near Woodpile Bridge between Port Clements and Tlell.
DriveBC reported Highway 16 closed at 4:17 p.m. while crews assessed the scene. The collision occurred roughly halfway between the two communities.
According to BC RCMP Media Relations, the crash was reported at approximately 3:30 p.m. when Masset RCMP responded to a two-vehicle collision south of Port Clements. Police, medical staff, and EHS attended the scene to provide aid.
“Unfortunately, one individual suffered fatal injuries from the collision, and two others were transported to hospital for treatment,” RCMP said in a statement.
The highway was closed temporarily but has since reopened. Police continue to investigate and believe weather conditions and speed may have been contributing factors.
That evening, organizers of the Jaylund M.W. Russ Memorial Basketball Tournament announced the rest of the event was cancelled.
“Out of respect to the tragic accident today, we will cancel the rest of the tournament.” “Our family cannot carry on. This is too tragic to function anymore. We send our Haida hugs and love to the family. Our hearts are broken again.”
On Saturday, the Council of the Haida Nation shared condolences on Facebook, saying, “Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to the family and friends mourning the loss of the young Haida man. Hold each other close and reach out for support.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Masset RCMP at 250-626-3991.
