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Update: Third vehicle allegedly involved in fatal crash on Highway 97 near Peachland

The collision happened around 7 p.m. Jan. 25
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Highway 97 through Peachland was closed in both directions for several hours. (Black Press file photo)

Update: 1:30 p.m.

More details have been released about a fatal crash on Highway 97 in Peachland Jan. 25.

West Kelowna RCMP says a northbound Toyota Corolla, driven by a lone male, crossed the centre line and collided head-on with an oncoming tractor-trailer around 7 p.m.

The driver of the Toyota died at the scene, and the truck driver was not injured.

The RCMP Traffic Analyst Unit continues to investigate and believes the driver of the tractor-trailer made substantial attempts to stop.

“At this time the cause of the accident is unknown and is still being investigated,” says Const. Mike Della-Paolera, media relations officer,” Kelowna RCMP.

“Reports also indicate that a third vehicle was involved that left the scene. That vehicle is described as a black Dodge Caravan which had struck the Corolla after the initial impact with the semi, and then drove off.”

The RCMP is searching for the third vehicle and is asking anyone with information that can assist with the investigation, including dash camera recordings, to contact West Kelowna RCMP at (250) 768-2880 and reference file number 2023-4509.

Update 7:45 a.m.

One person has died from the two-vehicle crash near Peachland, Kelowna RCMP confirmed to Black Press Media on Thursday morning.

The driver was in a sedan and collided with a semi-truck.

It is unknown how the collision occurred. It is under investigation.

Update: 5:49 a.m.

Highway 97 near Peachland is open again according to DriveBC.

The highway was shut down for several hours following a two-vehicle collision.

Original

Highway 97 is closed in both directions near Peachland due to a two-vehicle collision.

The incident reportedly took place at about 7 p.m., Wednesday (Jan. 25).

According to a witness, a vehicle collided with a semi-trailer near Drought Road.

A detour is available via Trepanier Bench Road for non-commercial traffic only. Highway 97C remains open.

It’s unclear when Highway 97 will reopen.

Check DriveBC for updates.

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