One beautiful Friday afternoon about 15 years ago, I was on my way home from Salmon Arm.
I was elated as a good friend called out of the blue and said he was on my doorstep. This surprise had me in a great mood and anticipating a great weekend with my long lost friend.
As I drove south on Highway 97 with my anticipation, my train of thought was shattered at Stickle Road.
An explosion of glass and car parts flew into my lane 100 feet in front of me. A mid-sized, grey car flew, spinning on the air, across my path and into the grass on the west side of the highway.
It’s very difficult and emotional to recall this as I write.
I locked my brakes and slid off the road. I got out of my truck and ran to the small car that contained two elderly ladies.
At this time, I realized they had been T-boned coming off Stickle Road by a pickup truck in the inside lane, heading south like me.
Upon surveying the damaged car, I realized that the woman on the passenger side was not likely to survive. The driver was pinned between the door and console in a space way too small for her. The driver was conscious.
I covered the two ladies with jackets I had as per my first aid training.
I C-spined the driver and spoke to her about frivolous stuff to steer her focus from her friend’s situation.
Emergency crews cut and pried at the car for half-an-hour while I knelt in the back seat now with protective goggles on. They eventually freed the driver.
The passenger was not trapped and left the scene immediately.
In the bright summer sun, it began to rain.
Having a front row seat to such a horrendous event is not something I’d recommend one participate in. Our emergency services people see it every day and it’s no easier for them to witness.
In all, 10 people participated that day in what took place, victims and helpers combined.
No one went home that day and rejoiced. No one went home happy.
All of this because one road was not decommissioned.
Driving off Stickle Road south on to Highway 97 is like walking out into a live fire rifle range. I have no interest in this debate other than that of the public’s safety.
Please close this road immediately to southbound turns.
Jeff Hopewell
Vernon
