Impaired driving suspected in deadly Saturday crash near Merritt; police appeal for witnesses

Police said a 24-year-old Surrey man who was a passenger in the Rav 4 died at scene, while the other three passengers — all Surrey residents between 24 and 38 years old — were taken to hospital with serious injuries.

BC Emergency Health Services released a statement Saturday afternoon confirming that two people involved in the crash were airlifted for medical treatment.

“Three ambulances with primary care paramedics, an ambulance with advanced care paramedics, a paramedic supervisor and two air ambulances responded to the scene. Paramedics provided emergency medical care to four patients,” said BCEHS.

“Three patients were transported to hospital in critical condition, including two by air ambulance. Another patient was transported to hospital in stable condition.”

The lone occupant of the Tacoma — a 22-year-old Coldwater man — appeared to have minor injuries and BCHP officers arrested him for suspected impaired driving.

“We need more video and witnesses who can tell us what the driver of the black Toyota Tacoma was doing before he started driving,” says Sgt. Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol.

“Some witnesses say the black Toyota Tacoma entered Highway #5 near Lac Le Jeune. If you saw what the driver was doing before he started driving, we need to talk to you.”

DriveBC said the accident had the Coquihalla Highway closed until about 4:00 p.m. on Saturday

Information, photos or dash-camera video of the events leading up to the crash or the action of the Tacoma driver’s actions before the collision can call BC Highway Patrol – Kamloops at 250-828-3111 and quote file (2100) 2026-2997.

by Elora McCormack

Impaired driving suspected in deadly Saturday crash near Merritt; police appeal for witnesses

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