Two dead after pedestrians struck near entrance of Tsawwassen Mills mall

Two pedestrians were killed outside an entrance to the Tsawwassen Mills mall in South Delta on Wednesday morning.

According to the Delta Police Department, the driver of the vehicle that hit the pair may have experienced a medical emergency before the collision. Two other pedestrians were injured.

“Four pedestrians were struck and, tragically, two people have died as a result of their injuries,” the police statement said.

“The remaining injured individuals were treated at the scene by B.C. Emergency Health Services and transported to hospital.”

Police said the incident was not related to the Truth and Reconciliation Walk that was taking place nearby on Tsawwassen First Nation lands at the time. The mall is also on the First Nation’s lands.

However, images from the scene show many people affected by the tragedy were wearing orange Truth and Reconciliation Day T-shirts.

The Tsawwassen First Nation confirmed that the incident had occurred at the same time as their Truth and Reconciliation Day walk was underway.

“Out of respect for Tsawwassen First Nation families and ongoing response efforts, we will not be providing additional details at this time. Further information will be shared when appropriate,” the TFN statement read.

“Tsawwassen First Nation extends its sincere gratitude to the Delta Police Department, emergency responders, and community members who assisted during the incident.”

The black truck that appeared to have struck the pedestrians was towing a trailer and was marked Alpine Services. Alpine Services has had a cleaning contract at the mall since 2019.

The incident occurred close to the No. 3 south entrance to the mall. It appears that the truck was being driven close to the entrance when it crashed through an awning in front of Boston Pizza, then struck a brick wall.

An air ambulance and several road ambulances were dispatched to the scene.

B.C. Premier David Eby said he was awaiting more information on the incident.

“On a day already set aside for solemn reflection, a tragedy during the Tsawwassen First Nation Truth and Reconciliation event has shocked and saddened us all,” he wrote on social media.

“Police say it appears the driver of the vehicle experienced a medical event before the collision. As we wait for more details, our thoughts are with the families, with those injured, and with everyone at Tsawwassen First Nation.”

dcarrigg@postmedia.com