Update on fatal collision on Hwy 3 near Sparwood
By Nelson Daily Staff
East Kootenay Traffic Services continue with their investigation into the fatal collision that took place on Friday, Aug. 5 on Highway 3 west of Sparwood on Finning Hill.
Investigators have determined that the westbound pickup pulling a 29-foot fifth wheel recreational travel trailer crossed the center line into the eastbound lane.
An eastbound vacuum truck attempted to avoid the oncoming vehicle by pulling as far over to their right as possible, however, was unable to avoid impacting with the pickup.
The road conditions were bare and dry, weather was hot and partly cloudy and traffic was reported to be heavy. The collision occurred on a straight stretch of highway that has an uphill grade leading to the west.
The roadway is a two-lane undivided highway with a double solid line dividing the westbound and eastbound traffic.
The driver of the pickup, a 78-year-old Pincher Creek resident, was pronounced dead at the scene. His 78-year-old wife currently remains in a Calgary hospital with serious injuries.
Immediate family members have been contacted and no names are being released at this time pending a completion of notification of additional next of kin.
The driver of the vacuum truck was treated and released from hospital.
Road and weather conditions are not considered to be factors in this collision. The investigation continues.
