UPDATE: Nanaimo RCMP have confirmed that two people lost their lives in a serious collision early Thursday morning after their vehicle veered into the path of a semi-truck.
— original:
A serious crash forced the closure of a significant stretch of Nanaimo Parkway, also known as Highway 19, early Thursday morning.
According to DriveBC, the collision occurred near the Parkway and Jingle Pot Road intersection shortly after 4 a.m. on February 20th.
Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, shutting down the highway between Northfield Road and Cedar Road—one of the two main routes through Nanaimo.
Reports indicate that a vehicle travelling along the Parkway collided with a semi-truck at the intersection, leading to a dramatic aftermath. Photos from the scene show the vehicle overturned after leaving the roadway and catching fire in a nearby wooded area.
Traffic Advisory *** The Parkway is closed in both directions near Jinglepot. Please take alternate routes to avoid the area, if possible.
— Nanaimo Fire Rescue (@NanaimoFire) February 20, 2025
At least one person sustained injuries in the crash, though the extent of their condition remains unclear. Nearby residents took to social media, stating they saw a BC Emergency Health Services Air Ambulance departing the area shortly after the incident, suggesting the severity of the situation.
The highway remains closed and traffic in the area has been heavily impacted. Authorities are urging commuters to seek alternative routes and anticipate delays as they investigate and work to clear the scene.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to Nanaimo RCMP and BC Ambulance for further details. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
⛔️#BCHwy19 A vehicle incident has the road closed in BOTH directions between Northfield Rd and 5th St. Detour available. Expect delays. Assessment in progress. #NanaimoBC #VanIsle
ℹ️https://t.co/ABigWMKRZd— DriveBC (@DriveBC) February 20, 2025
