EDITOR’S NOTE: Edmonton police said the 19-year-old died on the morning of Dec. 14, in hospital, where he had been since the crash nearly a month prior. Police said road conditions likely played a role in the crash.
A 19-year-old man was sent to hospital in life-threatening condition after the minivan he was driving lost control and crashed into a light pole early Monday morning in northeast Edmonton, according to police.
The serious collision happened shortly before 7:20 a.m. on Yellowhead Trail.
Police said a 2002 Dodge Caravan being driven by the man lost control on the on-ramp to the Yellowhead eastbound at Victoria Trail, hitting a light standard. The silver-coloured minivan could be seen wrapped around the pole along the merge ramp.
Police said paramedics treated and transported the teen, who was alone in the van, to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Edmonton police said alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the collision, although investigators believe speed may have been a cause.
As of 9:30 a.m., one lane of the Yellowhead eastbound was open and traffic was backed up extensively. The road reopened to traffic shortly after noon Monday.
The Major Collision Investigation Section (MCIS) was leading the investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash is being asked to call Edmonton police.