Sad News: Three dead, 14 in critical condition after off-road tour vehicle rolls over in Jasper National Park

Emergency crews responded Saturday to a tour vehicle rollover that has left three people dead and multiple others injured in Jasper National Park.

Jasper RCMP worked with other emergency responders at a rocky, steep scene near the Columbia Icefield and Highway 93, a police news release said Saturday.

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At least one witness reported that a section of private road leading to the Athabasca glacier may have fallen away, taking the vehicle with it.

RCMP said three people died in the rollover.

A statement from AHS late Saturday said a total of 24 people were taken to hospital, including 14 in critical, life threatening condition. Four were is serious but stable condition, and six in stable condition.

There were 27 people inside the vehicle when it rolled.

Tour company Pursuit operates tours in the area, transporting visitors onto the Athabasca Glacier. Spokeswoman Tanya Otis confirmed an Ice Explorer off-road vehicle overturned at 2:09 p.m. as it made its way to the glacier.

“We will provide additional details as they become available. Our immediate concern is with the injured and their families and we are supporting the efforts of first responders,” said Otis.

Pursuit’s website says the Ice Explorer can carry up to 56 people. They are described as 3.86 metres tall, 13 metres long and 3.61 metres wide. The tour vehicles have large monster truck-style tires and are painted red and white in a Canadian flag design.

EMS, STARS air ambulance and multiple fire departments responded to the accident. Parks Canada crews were also on the scene.