Multi-vehicle pile-up shuts down highway north of Airdrie, results in one fatality

Airdrie RCMP, an RCMP Collision reconstructionist, EMS personnel, and area fire departments are still at the scene of a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 2 north of Veterans Boulevard at Highway 72 in Rocky View County, that shut down traffic, resulted in a fatality, and injured several other motorists late last night.

"First responders are assisting over a dozen vehicles involved in this event. Vehicle fires and injuries are reported," stated an RCMP press release shortly after 10:30 p.m. last night (Dec. 27).

According to RCMP, travel along Highway 2 in the northbound lanes was closed at Veterans Boulevard at the time of writing, and motorists could expect delays for the next several hours. Traffic was being diverted north through Highway 567.

Travel along Highway 2 in the south bound lanes was flowing very slowly, with diversions being made to Highway 72 and Highway 806.

"RCMP are asking that motorists do not travel in these areas at this time," stated the release. "Intense fog, icy road conditions and changing weather patterns are dramatically impacting the ability for motorists to see and allow for first responders to attend to those who require assistance."

Videos posted on social media showed multiple vehicles, including large semi-trucks, had caught fire. 

In an early morning update on Wednesday, Dec. 28, Airdrie RCMP revealed preliminary information "has determined that a commercial vehicle including a trailer, along with five sedan cars, four pick-up trucks, three SUVs and a passenger van were involved in this incident."

The update also stated details of the cause of the collision remain under investigation, but primary factors appeared to be weather and road conditions.

"As a result of this collision, injuries were reported resulting in nine passengers from various vehicles being transported by ground ambulance to area hospitals for various non-life threatening conditions," RCMP stated. "One fatality was reported on scene."

RCMP are warning the public of poor road conditions along Highway 2 south of Red Deer and north of Airdrie. Roads are snow covered and icy, and visibility is poor due to blowing snow and fog. RCMP recommend drivers avoid travel if possible.

If travel is necessary motorists are being asked to slow down and adjust their driving to road conditions.

For the most up to date highway conditions in your area, motorists are encouraged to check 511 Alberta.