Hospitals in Prince George and Mackenzie, British Columbia, activated a code orange following a major bus crash on Highway 39. Northern Health confirmed the emergency designation—reserved for disaster or mass casualty events—was put in place at both the Mackenzie hospital and the University Hospital of Northern B.C. to prepare for an influx of patients.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that multiple people sustained injuries in the collision, which occurred south of Mackenzie, approximately 160 kilometres north of Prince George. Data centre company Iren confirmed that a bus chartered by one of their contractors was involved in the incident. Company spokesperson Matt Epting stated that their immediate focus is on the passengers and their families while they coordinate with emergency responders, the contractor, and the RCMP.
Authorities have not yet released specific figures regarding the number of patients or the severity of their conditions. In response to the emergency, health officials are urging residents in both communities to avoid hospital emergency departments unless dealing with a life-threatening medical situation.
Highway 39 remains closed as emergency crews respond to the scene, and officials have asked the public to stay away from the affected area while the investigation and response efforts continue.
