Collision with elk leaves B.C. motorcyclist dead, police say

A male elk wanders through the grass along the Vermillion Lakes near Banff, Alta. in a Nov. 1, 2000 file image. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Authorities are investigating a reported collision between a motorcycle and an elk in B.C.’s West Kootenays that left a man dead over the weekend.

The Trail RCMP detachment said the collision happened around 4:25 a.m. along Highway 3B near 10^th Street, in the village of Montrose.

The lone motorcycle rider—identified only as a 27-year-old from Fruitvale—was pronounced dead at the scene.

Witnesses said the motorcycle had struck an elk, according to the RCMP.

“This is a tragic loss that will be felt deeply in a close-knit community like ours,” said Staff Sgt. Dave Johnson, commander of the Trail detachment, in a statement.

“Incidents involving wildlife can happen suddenly and with little warning, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the man’s family, friends, and all those affected by this incident.”

The RCMP determined there was nothing criminal about the crash, and said the investigation has been handed over to the B.C. Coroners Service.