Following a deadly crash early on Monday, police say the Coquihalla Highway is closed in both directions near Merritt, British Columbia.
Two semi-trailers crashed on the highway just south of the city, according to the RCMP.
One person has died, according to a statement, while another was brought to the hospital in a critical condition.
Due to the collision, both southbound highway lanes were completely in flames.
The B.C. Highway Patrol, Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement, B.C. Ambulance Service and B.C. Coroners Service is assisting Merritt RCMP officers in their investigation.
The statement continued, “Due to the intense nature of the fire, it is dangerous for vehicles to pass, hence the highway closure.”
Given the fire, the B.C. Wildfire Service is also aware of the crash.
Drivers should check DriveBC for updates on the highway closure, which “is expected to be lengthy,” according to the RCMP.
As per DriveBC, the highway’s northbound lanes were opening and closing intermittently.
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