Two children are dead and three others are injured after a side-by-side vehicle driven by a seven-year-old rolled over in northern British Columbia.
Mounties say the crash happened shortly after 1 p.m. on June 4 on a rural road outside the community of Pouce Coupe, near the B.C.-Alberta boundary.
“Five young children were in the vehicle when the driver lost control, resulting in the vehicle rolling several times over a considerable distance,” the RCMP said in a statement.
Investigators say an eight-year-old boy was pronounced dead at the scene while the driver, a seven-year-old girl, died later in hospital.
The three other occupants suffered minor injuries, police said.
Family members identified the deceased as Jordan Poulin, 8, and Jadyn Barrett, 7.
A public memorial service for the victims is scheduled for Friday in nearby Dawson Creek.
Police said the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Under the B.C. Off-Road Vehicle Act, children under 16 years old are prohibited from operating a side-by-side or similar vehicle with passengers on board.
Children are also required to meet the vehicle manufacturer’s minimum height and weight requirements and must be supervised by an adult.
“As a parent, I cannot fathom the unimaginable and tragic loss these families have suffered,” said B.C. RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark in a statement.
“Our hearts go out to everyone who was impacted by this unthinkable event.”
