Image Credit: Global BC

By James Peters

School Bus Crash

Investigation into Cariboo school bus crash could take months: RCMP

Jun 26, 2024 | 1:45 PM

LAC LA HACHE, B.C. — Authorities in the Cariboo say it may be months before they know what caused the frightening school bus crash last Friday (June 21).

Dozens of children and adults were injured and 17 were rushed to hospital when a bus left Highway 97 near Lac La Hache, careening down a 50-foot embankment.

In the moments after the crash, a pedestrian was killed by a passing vehicle while apparently crossing the highway in an effort to provide assistance. RCMP have identified the victim as a 67-year-old man from the Cariboo region.

In a news release issued Wednesday (June 26), Sgt. Jason Nash of BC Highway Patrol (BCHP) in Williams Lake appeals for dashcam video from anyone travelling between 150 Mile House and Butler Road between 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. last Friday. As well, anyone with surveillance that shows the bus is asked to contact BCHP.

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“BC Highway Patrol would like to send their condolences to the family and friends of the pedestrian who lost his life on June 21 and would like to extend thanks to opped to render assistance to the pedestrian and those on board the school bus,” said Nash. “We appreciate your patience as we search for answers and ask for continued compassion for the drivers, passengers, and witnesses who were affected by this tragic incident.”

Nash notes efforts will be made in the coming weeks to return personal items that were left in the bus. Anyone with video or further information is asked to contact BC Highway Patrol – 100 Mile House at (250) 395-2456 and refer to file number 2024-2050.