Four killed in Highway 97 head-on crash near Monte Lake

Four people were killed in a head-on crash this morning on Highway 97 between Vernon and Kamloops.

At around 9 a.m. today, Jan. 16, police received multiple reports of a two-vehicle collision in the 3800 block of Highway 97 near Monte Lake, according to an RCMP media release.

Officers with the BC Highway Patrol and Vernon RCMP detachment responded and determined two vehicles had collided head-on.

READ MORE: Highway 97 at Monte Lake reopens after serious collision

Four people, including the drivers of both vehicles, were declared dead at the scene.

Another individual in critical condition and was transported from scene of the crash by BC Emergency Health Services.

"No additional details will be released at this time as we are still confirming the identities of the deceased and in the process of notifying the next of kin," Vernon RCMP spokesperson Const. Chris Terleski said in the release. 

The cause of the collision has not yet been determined.

Highway 97 is now open to single alternating traffic. Motorists may experience disruptions as police continue their investigation at the scene.

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