Vehicle fire blocks south bound lanes of Hwy 97

To view a larger image of the burnt car and emergency vehicles click here

May 2 at approximately 9:30 AM Lake Country RCMP received a report of a car fire in the South bound lanes of Hwy 97 between Gatzke Rd and Pelmewash Parkway. Upon attendance it was found the driver of the involved vehicle was southbound when his vehicle lit on fire at the top a long hill. Once fully engulfed, the vehicle rolled backwards striking a truck, causing minor damage to the truck. The car then carried on down hill, going against the flow of traffic, until it came to a rest at the bottom. No other vehicles were damaged during that time. The South bound lanes of Hwy 97 were blocked for approximately an hour before being opened up when the vehicle was removed. There is no indication as to the cause of the fire and there is no criminality in this incident.

This is a reminder to conduct routine maintenance before the busy summer driving season. We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated fire department to assist which kept the fire from spreading. -Cpl.Birtwistle, Lake Country Watch Commander