Upon the arrival of the police at the scene, members ascertained that a north bound vehicle had lost control on snow packed and icy roads, causing it to leave the travel portion of the highway and go down a 30 meter embankment into the North Thompson River. There was a debris field and it appeared that a tree had been struck at one point. Some personal items were located at the scene by RCMP. Attempts were made to locate the vehicle, which was now completely submerged under water.

Unfortunately, due to the time of night and dark lighting conditions, initial attempts to locate the vehicle were not successful. The investigation and search for the vehicle resumed at daybreak, the following day. Search and Rescue, RCMP Air Services, RCMP Dive Team, along with local RCMP members are continuing their search along the river. A Southeast District RCMP Collision Reconstructionist is assisting with the investigation.

The occupants of the vehicle are considered missing and deceased stated Cpl. Bart Doerr, Central Interior Traffic Services, Their families have been notified and are being assisted by the RCMP Victim Services. The deceased are Skye Tavis BUCK, who would have turned 31 tomorrow, and his wife, 30 year old Courtney Elizabeth BUCK.

Both were local Clearwater school teachers, prominent and well known members of the Clearwater community. Grievance Counselors and Victim Services have been brought in to assist with staff and students with the Clearwater High School and Elementary Schools, where the Buck's were teachers.

This is a truly tragic and unfortunate incident that is being felt throughout the entire community of Clearwater," said Doerr. The investigation continues into the cause of the incident and police believe that road conditions played a factor in this tragic event."

Submitted by Central Interior Traffic Services, Clearwater, B.C.