Based on coverage from CBC and CityNews.
Charges Laid in Fatal Alberta Highway Crash
A tragic highway collision near Killam, Alberta, has led to charges against a 73-year-old man from Chemainus, B.C. The crash, which occurred at the intersection of Highway 13 and Highway 36 in March 2025, resulted in the death of a nine-year-old girl. The Alberta RCMP announced that Eric Shaffer is facing multiple charges, including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death and four counts of causing bodily harm.
Details of the Collision
The incident involved two pickup trucks colliding at the intersection. According to police reports, Shaffer's grey pickup truck allegedly failed to stop at a posted stop sign, leading to the collision with another pickup truck carrying a family. The crash claimed the life of the young girl at the scene, while her siblings—a nine-year-old girl, a 12-year-old boy, and a 14-year-old boy—and their 44-year-old father were rushed to the hospital with various injuries. Shaffer and a female passenger in his vehicle sustained minor injuries and were assessed on-site.
Investigation and Charges
Following a thorough investigation, the RCMP determined that Shaffer's failure to stop at the stop sign was the primary cause of the accident. This led to charges being filed against him for dangerous driving resulting in death and bodily harm. The charges reflect the severity of the incident and the impact on the family involved. Shaffer is scheduled to appear in court in Killam on March 3.
Community Impact and Response
The tragic event has deeply affected the local community in Alberta and beyond. The loss of a young life and the injuries sustained by the family have sparked discussions about road safety and the importance of adhering to traffic regulations. Community members and local authorities are calling for increased awareness and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences of traffic violations and the need for vigilance on the roads.
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