Semi-truck driver killed in crash near Lake Cowichan on Highway 18

A semi-truck driver is dead and another person is in critical condition following a serious crash near Lake Cowichan on Thursday.

According to Lake Cowichan RCMP, the collision happened around 11:40 a.m. on May 14th along Highway 18 near Skutz Falls.

Police say the crash involved a semi-truck and a white Ford Explorer SUV.

When officers arrived, they found the semi-truck in a ditch, severely crushed against trees.The SUV was also located in the ditch with one occupant suffering serious injuries.

“The force of the impact caused the semi-truck to veer off the road and eventually hit a residential propane tank nearby,” said Corporal Alex Bérubé, spokesperson for the BC RCMP.

“The breach of the tank caused a propane leak which was contained by the Fire department.”

Police confirmed the driver of the semi-truck died at the scene. The driver of the SUV remains in hospital with critical injuries.

Highway 18 was closed for a period of time while investigators gathered evidence at the scene.

RCMP thanked members of the public who stopped to provide immediate aid following the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lake Cowichan RCMP at (250) 749-6668.