By Sgt Ed deJong

This past week, October 23 to October 30, Columbia Valley RCMP officers responded to 61 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

Significant injuries after tractor trailer t-bones pickup in Dry Gulch

On October 24, Columbia Valley RCMP members were travelling Highway 93/95 between Invermere and Radium Hot Springs when they came across a collision in the Dry Gulch area. A tractor trailer had t-boned a pickup with the driver of the pickup being ejected and the passenger trapped in the vehicle. Invermere Fire Rescue and EHS attended, using the Jaws of Life to cut out the passenger. Both of the injured parties were flown to outside hospitals with significant injuries. Investigation revealed the pickup pulled out in front of the tractor trailer, giving no time for the driver of the tractor trailer to make evasive maneuvers. The driver of the pickup had failed to clear the snow from his driver’s side window, which likely prevented him from seeing the approaching tractor trailer.

Suicidal man taken to hospital

On October 25, Columbia Valley RCMP responded to a report of a suicidal male. Upon arrival, members encountered a male with a large knife and bear spray, who was threatening to spray the members and use the knife on himself. Members were able to de-escalate the situation and safely take the male into custody, transferring him to the hospital to speak with a doctor.  The members involved showed their ability to professionally, compassionately, and safely deal with a volatile situation, resulting in a person in crisis obtaining the help they need.

Localized black ice caused spate of crashes Oct. 27

On the morning of October 27, Columbia Valley RCMP responded to multiple collisions between Dry Gulch and Edgewater. The roads in this area were extremely slippery due to localized black ice, causing multiple vehicles to go off road in various locations as well as a multi vehicle collision involving tractor trailers and a bus. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries.

Time to be winter driving prepared

This past week has provided the valley with the first blast of sustained winter weather. Please check road conditions at www.DriveBC.ca prior to leaving on a trip and ensure you have the proper winter tires and a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Always give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely.

e-KNOW file photo

– Sgt. Ed deJong is Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment commander

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