Woman killed in 4-vehicle southern Alberta collision identified

A woman killed Thursday morning in a four-vehicle collision in southern Alberta has been identified by her family.

“Clara had just spent Christmas with her boyfriend in Saskatoon and was returning home to her family and friends in Banff when her journey was cut short,” read a statement the family issued Friday.

“Our hearts are shattered.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Our hearts are shattered."

View image in full screen

Mentzelopoulos was a first responder, volunteer firefighter, avid climber, skier and pianist who dedicated her life to helping others, her family said.

“She volunteered at the hospital feeding and playing piano for seniors and was a rock in the lives of many of her friends and family. She was luminous and strong, and had a gentle and enormous heart that she shared with everyone lucky enough to have known her.”

Oyen RCMP said an initial investigation showed an eastbound truck crossed the centre line of Highway 9 near Range Road 60 into the path of a westbound car on Thursday just before 11:30 a.m. Two other westbound vehicles then collided, sending one of them into the ditch, police said.

Mentzelopoulos​ was driving one of the westbound cars and died at the scene.

The two occupants of the eastbound truck were taken to hospital with serious injuries, according to RCMP.

RCMP said three other people from the other two vehicles were taken to hospital by police with minor injuries and later released.

Police said the roads were icy and it was foggy at the time of the fatal collision.

Highway 9 and Range Road 60 is west of the town of Oyen which is about 300 kilometres east of Calgary.

WATCH (Oct. 3, 2018): The Alberta Motor Association provides tips on being prepared for winter-driving emergencies

1:41 Staying safe in a snowstorm: Alberta Motor Association provides tips on being prepared for winter driving emergencies