Crash into Fraser River kills two teenage girls and leaves young man in critical condition

Two teenage girls are dead and a young man remains in critical condition following a fatal Saturday night crash in rural Chilliwack.

Chilliwack RCMP was called shortly before 1130 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10 to the 46000 block of Ballam Road after receiving reports that a vehicle had left the roadway, flipped and was fully submerged in the Fraser River. 

The vehicle’s three occupants – all youth from Chilliwack – were trapped inside the vehicle. 

"Emergency responders arrived and located the vehicle down an embankment in the Fraser River approximately 10 feet from the dyke and immediately began rescue efforts," RCMP said in a press release.

"Emergency responders entered the water and were able to extract all three youth from the vehicle.  Despite CPR and life-saving efforts, two females, aged 17 and 18, were pronounced dead on scene.  A 21-year-old male was airlifted to a regional hospital where he remains in critical condition."

This collision is under investigation by the Chilliwack RCMP, the Lower Mainland District -Integrated Collision Analyst Reconstructionist Service (ICARS) and BC Coroners Service.    RCMP say no further information about the identity of the deceased or those involved will be released.

The investigation continues to determine the facts including if speed and/or alcohol may have played a role in this horrific crash.

“Fatal collisions are always tragic, but ones involving young people are particularly difficult,”   Sgt. Krista Vrolyk, media spokesperson for the Chilliwack RCMP said in a press release.    “Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of all those involved in last night’s crash.”

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