On October 29, 2022 at 11:20 hrs, Watson Lake RCMP, ambulance, fire department, and an RCMP traffic reconstructionist were dispatched to a single vehicle crash near KM marker 1090 of the Alaska Highway, near Rancheria. Reported by a witness via satellite communicator, a single passenger pickup truck was found in the ditch by the attending officer. An 83-year-old male resident of Watson Lake was pronounced dead at the scene. The female driver and a male passenger were taken to the Watson Lake hospital for treatment. No charges have been laid nor are anticipated.
Next of kin were notified by Watson Lake RCMP the same day.
Yukon Territorial Government Department of Highways and Public Works attended to manage vehicle traffic. There was little disruption to highway service.
As this incident involved a fatality, a joint investigation led by the Yukon Coroner's Service with assistance from Watson Lake RCMP is being conducted. An autopsy was completed on behalf of the Yukon Coroner's service in Abbotsford this week.
RCMP would like to remind Yukoners during this time of changing winter road conditions to prepare the unexpected. Slow down, keep your distance, and keep your focus on your drive today.
No further details will be released out of respect of the privacy of the family.