RCMP record 2 traffic deaths on Hwy 97 near Prince George as road conditions worsen

RCMP say two people have died in traffic incidents along Highway 97 north of Prince George this week.

The first death happened Monday afternoon, about 30 kilometres north of Prince George when a five-ton truck and pickup truck collided, resulting in the road being closed for nearly 10hours.

One person died while another was airlifted to hospital in stable condition, according toB.C. Emergency Health Services.

The second death happened just after 5 p.m. PT Wednesday when a pedestrian was struck in the Hart neighbourhood near Kenworth Road, also on Highway 97 North.

Again, the road was closed for several hours as a result and the driver remained on the scene.

North District RCMP spokesperson Madonna Saunderson said criminality is not suspected in either case.

No further details have been releasedas police investigate, however officials have been warning motoriststo adjust for winter driving.

The city recently experienced its first major snowfall of the year andtemperatures are hovering around 0 C, which can cause slippery conditions. Visibility is also reduced because of the earlier arrival of dusk.

Drivers are advised to keep headlights and tail lights on, give more space and time to stop, and ensure theyhave properly rated tires.