Man charged in connection with triple fatality near Pemberton to appear in court

A person who has been charged months after a crash on Highway 99 just east of Pemberton left three people dead will make a court appearance today.

Samuel Alec has been charged with three counts of criminal negligence causing death, three counts of impaired driving causing death, three counts of driving with a blood alcohol content over .08, and one count of failing to remain at the scene of the accident.

“This was a very challenging and complex investigation that utilized numerous resources from several specialized and integrated support programs which culminated in the arrest of the accused, Mr. Samuel Alec” said Inspector Michael Labossiere, Lower Mainland Traffic Services, in a statement.

“This was a true coordinated effort and I would like to thank all those involved in the investigation as this investigation was only successful through their dedication to duty, hard work and professionalism.”

It happened just before noon on May 31, north of Mount Currie and 15 kilometres east of the Birkenhead River. It’s alleged Alec hit three cyclists, killing two of them, along with the passenger in his own vehicle.

The two cyclists were members of the Whistler Cycling club and have been identified as Kelly Blunden, 53, and Ross Chafe, 50.

The passenger has been identified as Paul Maurice Pierre, Jr., 52, of the Lil’wat Nation.

A memorial ride was held for the two cyclists a week after the fatal crash.