Ice falling in B.C. commuter tunnel sends driver to hospital in serious condition

VANCOUVER – A Canada Post truck driver has been seriously injured by falling ice in the George Massey tunnel in Richmond, B.C.

British Columbia Health Services says it received reports that ice had fallen through the windshield of the vehicle on Friday.

It says two ambulance crews were dispatched to the scene and one patient was taken to hospital in serious condition.

The RCMP confirmed the driver is a 49-year-old man from Surrey, B.C., and his injuries are non-life threatening.

Sgt. Janelle Shoihet says police are investigating to determine the source of the large piece of ice.

A statement from the Transportation Ministry says its own staff and the maintenance contractor for the tunnel have assessed the area and there is nothing that leads them to believe there is further risk for travellers.

The ministry says the busy commuter route has been in operation for over 50 years and there has never been such an event.

Southern B.C. has experienced a series of winter weather warnings over the last week, including sub-zero temperatures and snow accumulations.