4 dead in Hwy 97 crash near Monte Lake, B.C., police say

Police say four people died and another is in critical condition after acollision on Highway 97 near Monte Lake, B.C., on Tuesday morning.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMPsaid in a statementthey were called to the crash just before 9a.m. PT. An initial investigation determined two vehicles collided head-on.

Officers from the B.C. Highway Patrol also responded to the scene where the four people, including both drivers, were declared dead. Officials say a fifth person was taken to hospital by B.C. Emergency Health Services.

"This is a terrible tragedy and our most heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased," said Const.Chris Terleski, a spokesperson for the detachment, in a media release.

"Our thoughts are also with the first responders and members of the public impacted by this event."

Terleski said authorities are still confirming the identities of the deceased and connecting with their next of kin. For this reason, he said no further details are being provided to the public.

Traffic is able to movethrough that section of Highway 97 but motorists could experience delays whilepolice continue their investigation.

Monte Lake is located about 70 kilometresnorthwest of Vernon, B.C., in the province's southern Interior.