One person has died following a single-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon on the Trans-Canada Highway near Victoria, Saanich police said. The crash closed northbound lanes between McKenzie Avenue and Helmcken Road, causing major traffic delays for hours.
Police said the incident occurred just after 2 p.m., when a vehicle heading northbound veered into a ravine. B.C. Emergency Health Services transported two patients to hospital. One remains in serious condition, while the other is expected to recover.
Insp. Damian Kowalewich said the crash is suspected to have been caused by a medical event affecting the person in the vehicle, but he did not specify whether the victim was the driver or a passenger. Kowalewich confirmed that there is no indication the nearby construction site contributed to the crash.
The Saanich police detective division, along with the traffic safety collision analyst team, is leading the investigation into the collision. “This is a tragic loss, and our thoughts are with the family, and everyone affected,” Kowalewich said.
The highway reopened around 5 p.m., but the crash caused significant traffic disruptions. One driver reported that a route normally taking 40 minutes from Vic West to Sidney took two and a half hours due to the backup.
Authorities urge drivers to plan for extra travel time in the region while investigations are ongoing. Emergency responders and police continue to examine the scene and collect information to determine the full circumstances of the crash.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by sudden medical emergencies while driving and the importance of road safety precautions. Drivers are encouraged to remain alert and ensure they are fit to operate a vehicle, especially on busy highways.
The investigation remains active, and police continue to gather evidence to provide clarity on the events that led to this tragic collision.
