A woman died after a serious crash on Sooke Road in Langford during the B.C. Day long weekend. The incident happened on Sunday, August 3, shortly after 4 p.m. and led to a full road closure for several hours.
Police say the crash took place near the 2900-block of Sooke Road. Emergency services arrived at the scene around 4:10 p.m., responding to reports of a severe two-vehicle collision.
According to witness statements, a grey 2008 Hyundai Elantra was heading westbound when it crossed the center line. It then hit a white 2019 Toyota Avalon traveling in the opposite direction.
Despite the efforts of first responders, the 34-year-old woman driving the Hyundai died at the scene. Her identity has not been released. The driver and passenger in the Toyota Avalon were both taken to the hospital. They suffered serious injuries but are expected to recover.
The road was shut down in both directions from Humpback Road to West Shore Parkway. It reopened just before 8 p.m., about four hours after the crash.
West Shore RCMP confirmed the woman’s death and expressed their sympathies to her family and friends. Officers are now working to determine what caused the Hyundai to swerve into oncoming traffic.
Cpl. Nancy Saggar, the media spokesperson for West Shore RCMP, reminded drivers to follow all road safety rules, especially during busy holiday weekends. She stressed the importance of safe driving and being alert to risky behavior on the road.
“If you see a vehicle driving in an unsafe way, try to stay at a safe distance,” said Cpl. Saggar. “When it’s safe to do so, call the police to report the driver.”
Police are asking for help from the public as they continue their investigation. Officers have already spoken to several witnesses but are now asking for dash camera footage.
Drivers who were on Sooke Road between Jacklin Avenue and the 2900-block of Sooke Road between 3:50 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. are urged to check their recordings.
Investigators are especially looking for any video that shows the grey Hyundai Elantra before the crash. Such footage could help police understand what led to the deadly accident.
Anyone with helpful footage or information is asked to contact West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264.
The incident adds to growing concerns over road safety during long weekends. With more people traveling, police continue to remind drivers to slow down, stay alert, and avoid distractions.
RCMP say their goal is to keep the roads safe for everyone. They are committed to finding out what caused this tragic event.
As the investigation continues, the community is left mourning the sudden loss of a life on what should have been a peaceful holiday weekend.