Pedestrian dies after being hit by snowplow in Abbotsford

The Abbotsford Police Department confirms a 31-year-old man who was hit by a snowplow Thursday morning has died of his injuries.

Initially, police reported the man was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

“The victim, unfortunately, somehow lost control of their vehicle, which was travelling on Highway 1, and then had gone off into the ditch,” explained Const. Art Steele.

“Whilst walking westbound on North Parallel, unfortunately, [he] was struck by another vehicle that appears to be a pickup truck equipped with a snowplow that was privately contracted and privately run.”

Police received reports of an incident “involving a pedestrian” in the area of North Parallel Road and Fooks Road in the city’s Lower Sumas neighbourhood just after 6:15 a.m.

“Medical aid was immediately provided, and the male was transported to the hospital,” Steele previously said.

A GoFundMe has since been set up by someone who appears to be friend of the victim, to help his family with expenses.

Police say the driver of the vehicle is cooperating with police and remained at the scene.

“Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash, with inclement weather and snow likely being contributing factors,” Steele said.

North Parallel Road between Whatcom and Kilgard roads will remain closed while investigators are on scene. There is currently no expected time of reopening.

“As we have been seeing these weather patterns carrying the snow and, looks like, freezing rain, we highly recommend that if you do not need to drive or commute, to stay at home. If you need or have the necessity to commute, we do highly recommend that your vehicle is aptly prepared for these conditions and that you plan ahead,” Steele said.

“Also, if you do find yourself in a predicament that you have to exit your vehicle and your vehicle is stuck in the snowbank or on the side of the road, having things like a high-vis vest, flashlights, an extra blanket or jacket in the car, just in case, are very crucial to preventing any further injury or safety risk to the driver and the public.”

Police are urging anyone who was in the area and who may have dashcam footage to contact AbbyPD at 604-859-5225.

-With files from Cole Schisler