Initial reports indicate that a female pedestrian who was killed on Highway 1 in Abbotsford early Wednesday morning walked directly into the path of traffic.
Cpl. Ronda McEwen, media relations officer with BC RCMP Traffic Services, said the 46-year-old woman of no fixed address was first struck by a 2004 Mazda 3 driven by a 28-year-old Abbotsford man.
“We understand the driver then put his own safety at risk, trying unsuccessfully to stop other oncoming vehicles from hitting the woman. He was understandably distraught about this tragic event,” McEwen said.
The collision took place shortly after midnight in the eastbound lanes of Highway 1 just east of the Sumas Way (Highway 11) exit.
All witnesses remained on scene and co-operated with police. The identity of the deceased woman has not been released.
The freeway was closed in both directions from McCallum Road to Sumas Way for almost five hours.
The Integrated Collision Analyst and Reconstructionist Service (ICARS) and the BC Coroners Service attended the scene to assist with the investigation.
The Abbotsford Police Department, Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service and the BC Ambulance Service also provided support on the scene.
McEwen said investigators have not identified the other vehicles involved and are asking the drivers to come forward.
Anyone with information about the incident or who witnessed the collision is asked to contact Fraser Valley Traffic Services at 604-702-4039.