2 dead after car hits deer, tumbles down embankment on Coquihalla Hwy.

2 killed in collision with deer on Coquihalla Two people are dead and a third is in critical condition after their car hit a deer on the Coquihalla Highway.

Two people are dead and a third is in critical condition after a car struck a deer on the Coquihalla Highway and crashed down an embankment Tuesday morning.

The vehicle is believed to have been heading southbound on the highway south of Kamloops when it hit the animal, causing it to veer off-road into a deep ditch.

Authorities have not released a description of the vehicle or the names of the two occupants who were killed. The only survivor was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.

"The vehicle is registered out of province," said Cpl. Janelle Shoihet. "So we're still trying to identify the people inside."

The southbound lane of the highway was closed for hours so police could investigate the crash, but it was reopened around 10:30 a.m.

In light of the accident, the Insurance Corporation of B.C. reminded drivers to be cautious of wildlife on the roads. That advice is especially important in the province’s Interior, where more than half of the roughly 10,000 annual collisions between animals and cars take place.

"There are tips people should keep in mind," said ICBC spokesperson Joanna Linsangan. "One: If you see the deer crossing sign, pay attention. It's there for a reason. Two: Slow down."

Investigators are still working to determine whether speed was a factor in Tuesday's tragic crash.

With files from CTV Vancouver's Sarah MacDonald