The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) continues its probe into a fatal collision between two tractor trailers on the fifth of October, a horrific incident that claimed the life of a 41-year-old family man hailing from Mission.
The unfortunate victim, Rick Neale, employed by Nordic Trucking, was in the process of transporting materials between a mine located near Williams Lake and the Vancouver Port. Authorities have absolved him of any responsibility regarding the ghastly mishap, which occurred on the Trans Canada Highway close to Spences Bridge.
Inspector Chad Badry of BC Highway Patrol elaborated upon the circumstances of the unfortunate incident, stating how the driver of the tractor trailer travelling northwards, was positioned within his own lane when the collision occurred. It has been determined that the driver of the southbound tractor trailer crossed the centre line at some point, the reasons for which remain elusive. Impairment due to drug or alcohol consumption has already been ruled out.
A twist of fate led Neale to taking on the role of a long-haul trucker. The writers and actors strike, which resulted in the shutdown of film production in Metro Vancouver, left him jobless as a Teamster transporting large set pieces between film and television locations. Consequently, he found himself employed by Nordic Trucking, a Hope-based company, where he was trained side by side with Brandi Mackenzie, an old acquaintance.
Speaking of Neale’s serendipitous arrival at the job, Mackenzie expressed her surprise, “It was rather unusual seeing Rick there. The recognition was instant. We have collaborated for so many years!” The acquaintances ended up doing their orientations together, a whole new experience created by a job opportunity fashioned by necessity.
Mackenzie was devastated when she was informed about Neale’s untimely demise, one that occurred on the very route she used to frequent. She expresses her hopes regarding the investigation revealing the cause behind the unexplained deviation of the other semi-truck driver.
Not delving into the specifics of the ongoing investigation, Mackenzie conjectures, “He was sailing down a slope, manoeuvering a bend. A deadly confluence of trajectory, velocity, and timing.”
She extends her heartfelt condolences to Neale’s family coping with the sudden demise of their beloved, taken while he was serving a transient job position.
Expressing her concern for Neale’s bereaved family, she says, “I yearn to embrace his spouse and kids. It’s impossible to comprehend their anguish. This loss is colossal, not only for his fellow truckers, friends, and family members but it’s a staggering loss for the world. He was an incredible person. His life was cut short too soon.”
Neale is survived by his wife Monica, and his two young children, seven-year-old Nathan and five-year-old Lexi. The family has initiated an online fundraiser to support them through this challenging phase.
