The RCMP is making a public appeal for witnesses as investigators continue their probe into a fatal crash on Hwy 97 earlier this month.
The head-on collision between two commercial vehicles in the Monte Creek area happened around 5:50 pm on Monday, Feb. 12.
“BC Highway Patrol in Kamloops has taken conduct of the investigation, which has revealed that one of the semi trucks failed to negotiate a curve and crossed the centre line,” said an RCMP release.
The victim of the fatal crash has since been identified as Mike Beernaerts, who was a driver for Reimer Bros Trucking Ltd based out of Armstrong.
“Mike's infectious smile and laughter brightened our days. Not only was he an exceptional trucker, but he was also a remarkable human being,” said a post from the trucking firm in the wake of the crash last week.
“Everyone at Reimer Bros can attest to the fact that Mike's presence will be deeply missed. In losing him, we have lost not just a great driver, but a great man.”
As investigators continue to try and piece together the incident, they’re urging any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to come forward.
They’re especially looking to speak with anyone who may have dash cam footage highlighting pre-collision driving behaviour and any relevant post-collision footage.
Anyone who has information or video footage that could advance this investigation is urged to contact the BCHP Kamloops officer at 250-828-3111 (ext. 2).
