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Accident closes Highway 97 in the Oyama area

RCMP reports that weather and speed played a role in six-vehicle crash
74080vernona-sixvehiclecrashWEB
Emergency personnel respond to a six-vehicle accident at Crystal Waters Road and Highway 97 in Oyama Thursday morning.

Update as of 10:33 a.m. Thursday

Emergency crews were called to the scene of a multiple vehicle collision on Highway 97 north of Oyama Thursday.

At 7:08 a.m., police found six vehicles involved in an accident near Crystal Waters Road and several people were taken to hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

"The scene has now been cleared and traffic is moving normally," said Cst. Kris Clark, with the RCMP.

"Speed, weather and road conditions are all considered to be major factors in this collision."

The investigation is ongoing but Clark says Motor Vehicle Act charges are likely forthcoming against at least one driver.

The accident forced the closure of the entire highway at one point, and then one lane was opened before all four lanes were fully reopened.

"The Lake Country RCMP would like to remind people that winter driving is in effect. Please slow down for the conditions and ensure that you have appropriate tires for the weather," said Clark.

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Update as of 8:20 a.m. Thursday:

A single lane on Highway 97 near Oyama has now been opened up in either direction after a multi-vehicle accident.

Traffic is now moving, very slowly.

"Conditions are extremely slippery" said Cst. Kris Clark, with the RCMP.

"Motorists are cautioned to slow down and drive to the conditions."

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Motorists heading along Highway 97 in Oyama should be prepared to stop.

As of 8:10 a.m. Thursday, RCMP report there is a multi-vehicle collision on the highway.

"The highway is currently blocked due to the collision and traffic is not moving in either direction," said Cst. Kris Clark, with the RCMP.

"Emergency crews are enroute and details will be provided soon."