A tragic series of accidents occurred over the holiday weekend in Saanich, resulting in the death of a pedestrian and the hospitalization of a motorcyclist with life-threatening injuries. These incidents have cast a somber tone over the start of the Labour Day long weekend in the area.
The first collision took place around 9 p.m. on Friday when a 55-year-old woman was struck while crossing a marked crosswalk. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders arrived at the intersection of Interurban Road and Grange Road in response to the accident. Although the driver of the vehicle involved remained at the scene, the cause of the collision is still under investigation.
Authorities have stated that neither vehicle speed nor driver impairment is currently being considered as factors in the crash. Collision analysts are diligently working to determine the exact cause of the collision, and it remains unclear whether charges will be pressed against the driver.
Just two hours later, at approximately 11 p.m., another incident occurred near the intersection of Tillicum Road and Gorge Road West. A 22-year-old motorcycle rider lost control and veered off the road. The rider was subsequently transported to the hospital with serious injuries that are now believed to be life-threatening. Police have identified speed as a contributing factor in this single-vehicle crash.
Following the pedestrian fatality, the crosswalk on Interurban Road has become a makeshift memorial site. Bouquets of flowers have been taped to the crosswalk traffic signal by neighbors who reveal that the victim was a frequent user of the road.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed either of these collisions or has information about the events leading up to them to come forward and contact Saanich police at 250-475-3421.
These tragic incidents have left the community in shock as they mourn the loss of a cherished member and hope for the recovery of the injured motorcyclist. As the investigations continue, it is a stark reminder for everyone to exercise caution on the roads and remain vigilant to prevent further accidents.
