Early Tuesday morning, Burnaby, B.C., was the scene of significant disruption as Highway 1 was closed westbound after a serious multi-vehicle collision involving at least five cars. The incident occurred just before 3 a.m., with reports stating it took place near the Kensington Avenue off-ramp. Burnaby RCMP and the BC Highway Patrol responded quickly to the scene, which was described as chaotic, with debris scattered across multiple lanes of the highway.
The police reported injuries to five individuals, two of whom were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Three additional people suffered minor injuries. Police confirmed the highway was completely shut down from Gaglardi Way to Kensington Avenue, leading to significant traffic delays as morning commuters were urged to seek alternate routes.
According to Corporal Mike Kalanj of Burnaby RCMP, the scene demanded immediate action to manage the aftermath. “The collision involved at least four vehicles, and the investigation is still early,” he stated. “We’re discussing the possibility of serious injuries resulting from individuals exiting their vehicles after the crash.” This comment highlighted the dangers pedestrians face on roadways, especially during such incidents.
Weather conditions at the time were reported to be poor, with pools of standing water on the highway contributing to the risk of accidents. This prompted police to stress the importance of careful driving, particularly with the winter months approaching. Speaking to the press, Corporal Michael McLaughlin mentioned, “It’s imperative for drivers to adjust their speed according to the road conditions, particularly when there’s inclement weather.”
The westbound lanes of Highway 1 remained closed for nearly ten hours as investigators from the Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS) evaluated the crash. Their analysis is part of standard investigative procedures following serious collisions, which require thorough examinations to ascertain the causes.
By 12:30 p.m., following extensive cleanup and investigation efforts, the highway was reopened. It was noted by DriveBC, which tracks the status of British Columbia’s highways, allowing traffic to return to normal after what had been significant disruptions earlier. Commuters had faced long delays during the peak of the morning rush hour, leading many to adapt their travel plans.
Authorities are now appealing for witnesses or those with dashcam footage from the early hours of the incident to come forward. Information gathered from the public could be pivotal for the investigation as it seeks to establish exactly how the accident unfolded. Corporal McLaughlin highlighted this need: “Witnesses can provide invaluable insights and information to assist with our reconstruction efforts.”
Motorists involved or those who may have witnessed the collision are encouraged to contact BC Highway Patrol with any relevant information, referencing file number 2024-3163. The police are full of empathy for the community's frustration during this incident and are determined to lay out the facts as clearly as possible.
With speed and road conditions potentially contributing factors to the crash, authorities are reminding drivers about the importance of road safety as winter approaches and weather conditions can rapidly change. Increased vigilance behind the wheel is key to preventing such serious incidents from occurring again.
This multi-vehicle collision on Highway 1 serves as another stark reminder of the perils of road travel, particularly under adverse conditions. For residents of Burnaby and surrounding regions, the incident also reinforces the need for community awareness and preparedness whenever stepping onto the roads.
Overall, this incident shines light on the fundamental importance of safe driving habits and diligent attention to roadway conditions, especially during the rainy season.
