BURSTSpecialized RCMP officers were called in Oct. 4, 2026 to investigate the circumstances leading to the death of two Coast Mountain College students after a vehicle with four occupants entered a lake near the Meziadin Provincial Park campground on Hwy 37 North.
“Two of the occupants were able to exit the vehicle after the crash and call for help; police officers later located the driver and another passenger deceased at the scene,” said RCMP Corporal Jennifer Cooper in a release.
“Our condolences go out to the family and friends of those affected by this tragedy. RCMP Victim Services staff will be working with the families to provide supports as needed,” she said.
The specialists were from the RCMP’s Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service. The highway was closed to traffic for several hours while the investigation was underway. The vehicle was recovered from the lake later that same morning.
In a release, Coast Mountain College extended its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the students who died.
“We have connected with the students’ families and have arranged for grief counselling and support for the Coast Mountain College family,” said college president Laurie Waye.
“My heart goes out to all of those impacted by this terrible event.”
Classes were cancelled for programs affected on Oct. 5 and Oct. 6.