TSAWWASSEN, B.C. — A somber atmosphere has descended upon the Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) following a tragic collision that claimed the lives of two people and left two others injured on the morning of Wednesday, September 30.
The incident occurred shortly before 10:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the Tsawwassen Mills shopping centre, mere moments after the community had gathered to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Delta Police have officially confirmed that the crash was not an intentional attack on the commemorative event, despite initial fears sparked by the sensitive timing of the tragedy.
According to preliminary reports from the Delta Police Department, investigators believe the driver of the vehicle experienced a sudden medical emergency prior to losing control and striking four pedestrians. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.
The Tsawwassen First Nation had been hosting a community walk that began at 9:30 a.m. at the TFN Recreation Centre. Participants were in the midst of transitioning to a secondary location at the shopping centre for the unveiling of a House Post when the collision occurred. Out of respect for those involved and to allow emergency crews to conduct their work, the TFN leadership made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of the day’s planned ceremonies.
“Tsawwassen First Nation is deeply saddened to confirm that an incident occurred during today’s Truth and Reconciliation Walk,” the Nation stated in a formal release. “Emergency responders remain on site. We ask members of the public to avoid the area and allow responders to carry out their work.”
Premier David Eby, who was attending a separate reconciliation event at Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation, addressed the tragedy while speaking to the media. He emphasized that the incident appears to be a medical misfortune rather than a targeted act, acknowledging the heavy emotional toll of the day. “We send all our love to the people of Tsawwassen First Nation, and with respect and appreciation for the work that they’re doing right now to support the community in this tragedy,” Eby said.
Local political figures, including mayoral candidate Dylan Kruger, echoed the calls for public support and privacy, urging residents to avoid the area and heed the directions of law enforcement.
While Delta Police have assured the public that there is no ongoing risk to safety, the scene remains restricted as the investigation continues. Authorities are now calling on anyone who may have witnessed the crash or captured it on dash-mounted cameras to come forward. Witnesses are asked to contact the Delta Police Department at 604-946-4411.
As the community grapples with the shock of this loss, flags across the region remain lowered in shared mourning for both the victims of the collision and the historical significance of the day.
This is a developing story. More to come.
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