ON Sunday, September 26 at approximately 1:46 a.m., University RCMP were called out to a single vehicle collision on North West Marine Drive in which two pedestrians were struck.
The Vancouver Fire Department and Emergency Health Services were on scene and the two pedestrians were pronounced deceased at the scene. Through preliminary scene analysis it was determined that the driver of the vehicle veered off the side of the road and hit an 18-year-old male and an 18-year-old female walking on the sidewalk. Both victims are confirmed to be students of the University of British Columbia.
The driver of the vehicle, a 21-year-old male of Vancouver, came to a stop after striking a parked car. He was arrested at scene, taken to a local hospital for minor injuries, later released, and will appear in court at a later date.
The Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS) are currently on scene conducting a full investigation. North West Marine Drive remains closed between Stadium (east) and Agronomy (west) for the next few hours.
“This is a tragic incident that has impacted the whole University community. Our thoughts are with the families and friends during this difficult time,” said Cpl. Ian Sim of University RCMP Detachment.
Police continue to investigate to determine if speed and alcohol or drug impairment are factors in this collision as they have not been ruled out.
No names will be released to protect the privacy of the deceased and their families and no further information will be issued at this time as the incident remains under investigation, police said.
University RCMP are seeking any witnesses or dashcam video of the incident. If anyone has any information, University RCMP is requesting you to come forward and contact them at 604-224-1322.
UBC President and Vice Chancellor Santa Ono said in a statement: “Today our UBC community is mourning the tragic deaths of two students, struck and killed by a car early this morning on Northwest Marine Drive.
“It is difficult to comprehend and express the enormity of the loss of these two bright and promising young adults.
“On behalf of the university, I wish to extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to their families, friends and loved ones.
“Our community mourns with you.
“I know some at UBC, particularly students in residence, are just now learning of this terrible incident. I want you to know there are grief and trauma counselling supports available to you. Please speak to your residence life manager to access those supports as you need to.
“I also understand there are many questions still to be answered as University RCMP continue to investigate, and I expect more details will emerge in the coming days that may further deepen our sadness. Out of respect for the privacy of the families, the university will not be revealing the identities of the students at this time.
“This is an awful tragedy. Please take care of each other.”
