After a tragic bus crash occurred on Vancouver Island on Friday, B.C. RCMP provided an update today as the investigation continues into determining what caused the accident.

B.C. RCMP stated in a news release that prior to 9:30 p.m. on September 13, Port Alberni RCMP received a distress call from a University of Victoria (UVic) satellite device at a remote location between Port Alberni and Bamfield on Vancouver Island.

A bus with 48 people (including the driver) had gone off road down an embankment off an industrial logging road about 40 kilometres (25 miles) away from Port Alberni.

Two passengers were found dead at the scene. All other passenger were taken to local hospitals. As of September 15, according to a UVic statement, only one person remained in hospital.  

Today (September 16), B.C. RCMP announced in a news release that Port Alberni RCMP and the B.C. Coroners Service have identified the deceased individuals as an 18-year-old woman from Winnipeg, Manitoba, and an 18-year-old man from Iowa City, Iowa.

Their names are not being released.

The driver of a second vehicle, who was in the area when the collision occurred, had remained at the scene and gave assistance.  

The cause of the collision is still being investigated, and investigators will be examining over 40 statements. Alcohol has been ruled out as a contributing factor.  

According to reports, the bus had been carrying UVic students on a field trip to Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre.

The University of Victoria had issued a statement on September 14 to offer condolences.

MultiFaith Services is offering a quiet space for reflection today (September 16) until 3 p.m.

Counseling services are also being offered to students, faculty, and staff.

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