A female motorcyclist died Sunday, July 5, 2026, following a collision with a recreational vehicle on British Columbia's Highway 99.
The incident has prompted an independent investigation into police actions prior to the fatal crash near Deeks Creek Bridge.
According to a news release from the B. C.
RCMP on Monday, Highway Patrol officers conducting speed enforcement initially spotted two riders who were reportedly speeding and driving erratically.
The officer left their position along the highway and moments later located one of the motorcyclists involved in a collision with a recreational vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene near Porteau Cove around 5:30 p. m.
PT but were unable to save the individual. The female motorcyclist was declared deceased at the scene.
The Independent Investigations Office of B. C.
(IIO) assumed jurisdiction over the incident to determine if officer conduct played a role in the fatality.
The oversight agency confirmed that a member of the BC Highway Patrol attempted a traffic stop on two motorcycles traveling together southbound on Highway 99.
Witnesses reported seeing the high-speed interaction shortly before the impact.
Aimee King said the motorcycles flew by her vehicle at high speed, and about 45 seconds later she came upon the scene of the fatal accident.
King described the police officer moving to pass the riders on the right, almost taking out one of the bikers trying to get out of the way.
She questioned the safety of the pursuit.
The multi-hour investigation caused massive traffic gridlock, leaving hundreds stranded until the highway reopened at 2 a. m.
Monday.
Stranded traveler Brittany Michalchuk said it took her an hour to rollerblade to the front of the line, noting elders, nursing mothers, and people needing to catch flights were among those stuck.
Motorists adapted by playing card games and setting up dinner tables.
Akshita Narula, stranded for eight hours with two young children, expressed frustration with the logistical management of the closure.
She acknowledged emergencies happen but felt more could have been done in handling the situation.
Local political figures demanded infrastructure and enforcement modifications.
West Vancouver-Sea to Sky Green MLA Jeremy Valeriote said the Sea-to-Sky Highway is not a joyride but a functional highway for locals, commuters, and tourists.
He stressed it is not a play park for reckless driving.
Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth described the corridor as a challenging route. He noted regional representatives are always looking for ways to improve things.
The ministry aims to use digital alert systems like Drive B. C.
to notify people of situations on the highway.
Farnworth urged motorist caution and reminded that the highway is dangerous, advising drivers to obey speed limits and drive to conditions.
He confirmed investigations by the B. C.
Coroners Service and B. C.
Highway Patrol are ongoing.
