Woman killed in three-vehicle crash involving stolen truck near Portage la Prairie

An RCMP detachment can be seen in this file photo. (David Prisciak/CTV News)

Manitoba RCMP has made an arrest in a three-vehicle crash near Portage la Prairie, Man., on Wednesday that left one person dead.

RCMP officers were called to the collision, which took place on Highway 26, around 10:50 a.m. on Wednesday.

Police investigated and determined the driver of a westbound pickup truck veered over the centre line, which caused the driver of an eastbound pickup truck to take action to avoid a crash.

The westbound pickup truck ended up going into a ditch and rolling, while the eastbound truck hit a westbound SUV.

The driver of the westbound truck was able to get out of his car. He was then picked up by a passing driver and dropped off at a gas station. Police confirmed this pickup truck had been stolen out of Arborg, Man.

The 28-year-old woman driving the westbound SUV was pronounced dead at the scene. The 21-year-old man driving the eastbound pickup truck was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The motorist who previously picked up the driver of the westbound truck returned to the scene and told police where he dropped him off. Mounties quickly determined the driver then got a cab and were believed to be heading to Winnipeg.

Officers then got in contact with the cab driver, who told them the suspect was dropped off near a hotel on Highway 1 in Headingley, Man. Police patrolled the area and arrested the suspect without incident.

A 24-year-old man is now facing charges including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death and operation while impaired. He is in custody.

Police continue to investigate.