CNN –
A bus crash in southern British Columbia, Canada, on Christmas Eve has left more than 50 people in hospital, officials say.
Medical teams from three area hospitals are treating at least 53 people, according to local health authority Interior Health, which said late Saturday that the crash on Highway 97C triggered a “Code Orange” response, a designation hospital used for disasters or a mass casualty event.
“At this time we are not in a position to provide conditions to patients,” Interior Health said in an update on social media. “We will do everything we can to connect families with patients as soon as possible.”
The crash occurred on the Highway 97C-Okanagan connector between Merritt and Kelowna, according to a joint statement from British Columbia Premier David Eby and other government leaders. The area is about 100 km. (62 miles) north of the Canada-US border.
“Our thoughts are with those affected by the accident, their loved ones and the first responders and healthcare workers who are giving everything to treat people and keep them safe,” the statement said.
BCEHS is currently on scene for a crash on Highway 97C near the Loon Lake exit. There are several ground units on the scene at this point. More on the way. This is still an active scene and updates will be posted here as they become available.
— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) December 25, 2022
The cause of the accident is currently unknown.
A hotline has been set up for families to locate loved ones involved in the crash, Interior Health said.