Our condolences go out to the family, friends and everyone affected by this loss.
A 17-year-old boy died Sunday morning after a pickup truck crossed into oncoming traffic on the Sherwood Park Freeway in southeast Edmonton.
Edmonton police say the crash happened around 10 a.m. on Nov. 1, near 50 Street.
The teen was a passenger in a Ford Ranger driven by another 17-year-old. According to police, the driver lost control while heading east, crossed into the westbound lanes and was hit by an oncoming Nissan.
Paramedics responded, but the passenger died at the scene. Police have not released his name.
Three others taken to hospital as a precaution
The driver of the Ranger and the two people in the Nissan were taken to hospital as a precaution. Police say no other injuries were reported.
The Edmonton Police Service’s Major Collision Investigations Section is leading the investigation.
Speed and alcohol not believed to be factors
Police say they don’t believe speed or alcohol played a role. They haven’t said what caused the driver to lose control.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the young person who lost his life this morning,” said Sgt. Timothy Connell of the Major Collision Investigations Section.
“This tragic collision is a reminder of how winter road conditions can change quickly. We encourage all drivers to be mindful of these conditions and to look out for one another on our roadways.”
Freeway closed for hours
Police closed the Sherwood Park Freeway in both directions between 34 Street and 50 Street while crews and collision investigators worked at the scene. The closure was still in place late Sunday morning, and the freeway reopened later in the afternoon.
Fog advisory in effect for the Edmonton region
Sunday was a foggy day in the Edmonton area.
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a fog advisory early Sunday for Edmonton, St. Albert and Sherwood Park, warning that visibility could drop to near zero in some areas and that travel could be hazardous. The advisory was still in effect around the time of the crash. An update at 10:29 a.m. warned that visibility could drop suddenly before the fog cleared later in the day.
The fog also hit air travel. Heavy fog delayed several flights in and out of Edmonton International Airport on Sunday.
The crash also came days after the season’s first major snowfall. Environment Canada had forecast up to 15 centimetres for parts of central Alberta between Oct. 27 and 29.
Fog makes it harder to see the vehicles and hazards ahead, and when temperatures are below freezing, it can leave a slick layer on bridges and overpasses. Police are asking drivers to slow down when visibility drops, leave extra space and avoid sudden braking or steering.
Police have not said whether fog, ice or any other road condition played a role in Sunday’s crash.
Police asking for information
The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been announced.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567, or #377 from a mobile phone.
If you need support
Losing a friend or classmate suddenly is especially hard for young people. Kids Help Phone offers free, confidential support 24/7 at 1-800-668-6868, or text CONNECT to 686868. Families can call or text 211 Alberta to find local grief support.
We’ll update this story if police release more information.
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