Investigation Ongoing Into Cause Of School Bus Collision In The South Cariboo

BC Highway Patrol continues to investigate the serious school bus collision last Friday (June 21) near Lac La Hache.

Police said prior to the collision, the school bus was on a class trip and had been travelling southbound on Highway 97, from the Likely Highway, before going down a 50-foot embankment near Butler Road and Highway 97.

Soon after, police said a pedestrian on Highway 97, identified as a 67-year-old man from the Cariboo Region was fatally injured by an oncoming vehicle.

“BC Highway Patrol would like to send their condolences to the family and friends of the pedestrian who lost his life on June 21 and would like to extend thanks to those who stopped to render assistance to the pedestrian and those on board the school bus,” Sargeant Jason Nash BC Highway Patrol Williams Lake stated in a release. We appreciate your paitience as we search for answers and ask for continued compassion for the drivers, passengers, and witnesses who were affected by this tragic event.”

BC Highway Patrol, 100 Mile House RCMP, CVSE, Transport Canada, and School District 27 are investigating the complex collision.

Police said it is expected that it will take months to determine the cause of the collision.

Anyone who lives on or was travelling on Highway 97 between 150 Mile House and Butler Road between noon and 1 pm June 21, to check their dashcam and home or business surveillance for the school bus and contact BC Highway Patrol 100 Mile House at 250-395-2456 and refer to file 2024-2050.