Fatal MVC west of Coleman

Crowsnest Pass RCMP

On January 7, 2015 at 9:25 pm Crowsnest Pass RCMP detachment members were dispatched to a two vehicle Motor Vehicle Collision on Highway 3, approx 3 kms west of Coleman, Alberta. Crowsnest Pass Fire and Emergency services along with Piikani and Pincher Creek RCMP Detachments and Lethbridge RCMP traffic services also attended to assist.


Upon arrival it was found that an eastbound pickup truck with one occupant from Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, struck an elk as it crossed the highway. The vehicle was disabled and parked on the south side of the highway with emergency lights activated. The driver of this vehicle was not injured. Shortly thereafter a second eastbound vehicle with two occupants swerved to avoid a second elk, lost control and turned sideways while skidding down the highway. This vehicle then struck the parked pickup in the rear on the driver's side.

Emergency Services assisted and transported a 35 year old male passenger from Fernie BC with unknown injuries to Crowsnest Hospital. 

The driver of the second vehicle, a 39 year old female resident of Fernie, BC, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Alcohol is not a factor in the Motor vehicle collision, wildlife and road conditions contributed to the collision. Road conditions were partially snow and frost covered.

Highway #3 traffic was detoured around while investigation was conducted.

Name of deceased will not be released at this time, Crowsnest Pass RCMP are continuing the investigation with assistance of Lethbridge Traffic Services