2 dead after SUV crashes into trees on northern Vancouver Island

Lights on a police cruiser are pictured in this file photo.

Two people were killed when their vehicle crashed into trees during a storm on northern Vancouver Island Wednesday, according to authorities.

The Campbell River RCMP says a newer-model Honda SUV was travelling south on North Island Highway near Brown’s Bay, north of the city, around 3 p.m. when it left the road and collided with trees.

Four people were in the car at the time, according to police. Two of them were taken to hospital with minor injuries while the driver and one passenger died at the scene.

“The Campbell River RCMP wishes to offer our sincerest condolences to the families and the community of the victims,” said Const. Maury Tyre in a police statement Thursday. “We appreciate the public and media providing them time and space in these difficult times.”

Police said the deceased are central coast residents.

The crash remains under investigation, but Mounties said a significant hailstorm in the area was a contributing factor.