More than 50 people were hospitalized in a bus accident in British Columbia on Saturday night.
Posted at 8:53am
Few details of the event were revealed by official sources, but it was confirmed that 53 injured had to be transported to three hospitals in Kelowna, Penticton and Merritt.
Regional health authorities have triggered a code orange to respond to the situation. Such a protocol is activated during a disaster or situation involving multiple injuries and fatalities.
No deaths were mentioned in the initial reports, but they also gave no information on the health of the 53 wounded. An information telephone was set up to support the families of fellow travelers.
The accident happened Saturday night on Highway 97C between Merritt and Kelowna. The expressway was completely closed for the rescue workers for more than 81 kilometers in both directions.
British Columbia Prime Minister David Eby said he was shocked by the event in a statement he signed with several of his ministers.
“Our thoughts are with everyone involved in this accident, their families and all first responders and healthcare workers who are doing their utmost to treat the injured and keep them safe,” the press release said.