1 person dead after vehicle collides with tree on Vancouver Island

A collision near Port Alberni claimed the life of one person on Sunday after a vehicle hit a tree.

Police said that just before 1:30 am, officers were advised of a single vehicle collision on Central South Main Forest Service Road near Frederick Lake, near the Center Main Connector.

Early indications are that the vehicle, with four occupants inside, left the roadway to the right and struck a tree.

Motorists traveling the road witnessed the collision, assisted with first aid and called for emergency services.

A male passenger in the vehicle was determined to be deceased at the time emergency services arrived, the next of kin have been notified.

A woman who was also a passenger was airlifted to Victoria General hospital with potentially serious injuries. A child and the driver were transported to hospital to ensure their well-being.

"The matter is still under investigation, however alcohol is not believed to be a factor" said Sgt. Peter Dionne of the Port Alberni RCMP. "Road conditions, inclement weather and limited communication at this remote location posed challenges to the response to this collision."

The BC Coroner Service, Port Alberni RCMP and RCMP Traffic Analyst are continuing their investigation.