Kamloops RCMP say a 47-year-old man, and an eight year old child were killed in a crash on Highway 5A near Stump Lake, south of Kamloops yesterday afternoon.

Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says the northbound vehicle likely failed to negotiate a curve on the highway and over a concrete barrier and down a steep embankment.

“The driver of the vehicle, a 47-year-old man was deceased at the scene, and two child passengers, ages eight and five, were taken to Royal Inland Hospital,” she said. “All three were from southern Alberta.”

Police say the eight-year-old child died of their injuries in hospital, while the five-year-old remains in critical condition.

Southeast District Central Interior Traffic Services and the BC Coroners Service are investigating the cause of the crash. The highway was closed for some time, but it was reopened later in the evening.

“At this point, we’ll be looking at anything that could have contributed to the accident,” noted Shelkie. “I do know the roads were bare and dry and it was daylight at the time. Every possibility that may have occurred will be taken into consideration in our investigation.”

“Our thoughts are with the family at this very tragic time,” added Shelkie.

 

Editors note: a previous version of the story had information from the RCMP who said two children, aged five and eight, died in hospital after the crash. RCMP issued a retraction on Tuesday, saying the five-year-old child is alive, and in critical condition in a Vancouver hospital.