It is with deep regret that I write to share information about a fatal accident that occurred yesterday in Woss – a remote community in the North Island near Port McNeill.
A logging train derailed near the village, claiming the lives of three people and seriously injuring two others. Woss is a very small community and this tragic accident will no doubt have a devastating impact on all residents in the region.
The two individuals who were injured in the accident have been transported to Campbell River and Victoria for higher levels of care. I would like to take this opportunity to thank and recognize our staff - the doctors, nurses, clinical and support teams and site leaders – who responded with professionalism and compassion.
I would also like to acknowledge the emergency response efforts of the residents of Woss and neighbouring communities, the RCMP and victim services, BC Emergency Health Services, North Island Critical Incident Response Network, North Island Crisis and Counselling teams and all of those who rallied during this crisis.
On behalf of Island Health, I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who died and were injured. Woss is a small, tight-knit community, and Island Health stands with its residents in their grief and loss.
Dr. Brendan Carr
Island Health President and CEO