The RCMP say the investigation is ongoing into the cause of a crash near Jasper, Alta., earlier this week that left six people dead and several others injured.
The crash happened on Highway 93 south of Jasper on Tuesday evening around 5 p.m.
Cpl. Laurel Scott with the RCMP read a statement Friday from Tim Dye of Louisiana, the brother of one of the American victims of the crash.
It reads, in part: “Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. We have truly felt the much needed encouragement from, and for, so many people.”
RCMP said a van heading north on the highway collided head-on with a southbound Hyundai Kona. Both vehicles caught fire.
A family of five from the United States was in the van at the time, two of whom were killed. Angela Dye Elkins and her son-in-law Nick Copeland were killed in the crash. The other people in the van were Elkins’ husband, Curtis, Elkins’ daughter, Sarah Copeland, who is Nick’s wife, and a toddler.
Sarah Copeland and Curtis Elkins were seriously injured in the crash. The Copelands’ two-year-old boy escaped unscathed.
“Many are asking about Sarah and Curtis who survived the accident. They are currently receiving hospital care and are both in a recovery process,” Tim Dye wrote.
“The baby, William, is also safe and reunited with the family. It’s truly a miracle that he came through the wreck with nothing more than a few bruises.”
Dye went on to speak about his appreciation for the many people that helped the family in the immediate aftermath of the crash.
“Your bravery has left us in awe of how willing people are to help.”
He also thanked RCMP and other first responders.
“Finally, to the people who have given hospital care to Sarah, Curtis and William. Words can not express how much each of you have impacted us with your level of care. The pediatric and ICU nurses made us feel like family by what you guys have done for us and our family.”
In addition, Dye spoke about the future.
“We know there is a long road ahead of us. This family came to Canada seeking adventure. The silver lining is that through all of the pain and loss, we know that Angela and Nick were upgraded to an even better adventure. God’s faithfulness has been so evident in how so many people have responded. No word, prayer, financial gift or condolence will go unforgotten by our family.”
Four Banff restaurant workers were in the Hyundai Kona, all of whom were killed. The victims have been identified as Anand Singh Panwar, Pawan Kathait, Gelek Wangmo and Ganesh Anala.
READ MORE: Four Banff restaurant workers among six killed in Jasper-area crash
A third vehicle that swerved to avoid the crash ended up in the ditch. Two people inside the vehicle suffered minor injuries, RCMP said.
Scott said the RCMP would not be providing any further updates until the investigation is completed and even then, will not release any additional information unless charges are laid.
Watch below: Ongoing Global News coverage of the deadly crash near Jasper, Alta. on Tuesday evening
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