Two dead as police chase ends in fiery crash

Published: November 20, 2009 5:52 a.m.

Last modified: November 20, 2009 12:53 a.m.

Be the first to comment

Print article

Text size

Two people are dead following a police pursuit near Jasper Thursday night, RCMP said.

Police said Mounties attempted to stop a minivan spotted driving erratically near the east Jasper park gates before 5 p.m.

The van sped through the town of Hinton on Highway 16, driving east in westbound lanes while police gave chase.

Police said it crested a hill toward two oncoming vehicles. One vehicle dodged the van by driving in the curb lane.

Police said the pursued vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming truck in the passing lane, then burst into flames on impact. Officers tried to free the driver of the pickup, but when they returned to their vehicle for extraction tools, an explosion rocked and engulfed both vehicles in flames.

RCMP said both drivers died on scene. Police believe neither survived the initial crash.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team, a police watchdog unit, is investigating the incident, and the circumstances leading up.

Investigators are working with the Edmonton medical examiner to identify the two deceased, in order to notify next of kin.

more local stories

Police release video, new evidence in dad’s murder

Edmonton police are turning to social media in a plea for tips about the murder of a 29-year-old man in his home last spring by what they believe was a group of intruders.

Pharmacists to get cash injection, expanded roles

Alberta’s health minister revealed changes that will see pharmacists renew prescriptions for a $20 reimbursement, but not all druggists are banking on its success.

Student-loan program gets makeover

Post-secondary students should have an easier time applying for loans this year, thanks to changes announced Monday.

Add your comment

Comments are not reviewed before posting. If you believe a comment has violated the commenting guidelines, please alert a moderator using links provided.