Tragedy Strikes Fraser River: Woman Dies After Car Plunges into Chilling Waters in Chilliwack

CHILLIWACK, B.C. – A pall of sorrow has fallen over Chilliwack following a heartbreaking incident where a 71-year-old woman tragically lost her life after her vehicle plunged into the frigid waters of the Fraser River. The devastating accident, which occurred on Thursday afternoon, prompted a rapid and extensive emergency response, but ultimately ended in tragedy.

Authorities were alerted to the harrowing scene around 2:30 p.m.

on November 2nd, with reports indicating a car had veered off a road near the intersection of Gill Road and Young Road, plummeting into the powerful river. The immediate concern for the occupant's safety triggered a coordinated deployment of resources from various agencies, including the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment RCMP, Chilliwack Search and Rescue, and the Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS).

Witnesses described the grim sight of the vehicle partially submerged as emergency crews arrived.

The challenging conditions of the river, known for its strong currents and cold temperatures, complicated immediate rescue attempts. Specialized teams, including an RCMP dive team, were quickly mobilized to the scene to assist in the recovery operation. Their efforts focused on locating the vehicle and, more critically, its occupant.

After a painstaking search and recovery, the woman was tragically located and extricated from the submerged vehicle.

Despite the swift and dedicated response from all involved, she was pronounced deceased at the scene, confirming the community's worst fears. Her identity has not been released, out of respect for her grieving family.

The RCMP continues its investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash.

While details remain sparse, investigators are working to determine why the vehicle left the roadway and entered the river. Factors such as road conditions, vehicle malfunction, or medical emergency will likely be considered as part of the thorough inquiry. Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward and assist with the investigation.

This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can arise on our roads, especially those adjacent to powerful waterways.

The community extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time, as they grapple with the sudden and profound loss.