Alberta RCMP have confirmed that officers are currently on the scene of a serious multi-vehicle collision in Canmore, Alberta, that occurred earlier today in the westbound lanes of Highway 1 near the Highway 1A interchange. The incident has forced authorities to close portions of the roadway and redirect traffic, causing significant delays for drivers traveling through the area.

According to initial reports, the crash involved several vehicles traveling westbound on the Trans-Canada Highway near the busy junction with Highway 1A. Emergency crews, including RCMP officers, paramedics, and local fire services, were quickly dispatched to the site after calls were made to 911 reporting the collision. While the full extent of injuries has not yet been confirmed, police have indicated that multiple people may require medical attention. At least one ambulance was seen leaving the area shortly after the crash.

The westbound lanes of Highway 1 near the scene have been temporarily closed while investigators work and cleanup crews attend to the vehicles. As a result, traffic is being detoured around the affected area, leading to long lineups of vehicles and travel times extended by over an hour in some cases. Drivers are being urged to avoid the stretch of Highway 1 near Canmore if possible, and to plan for alternative routes.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and RCMP have not yet released details regarding the circumstances that led to the crash. However, officials are reminding motorists that the area is often busy with commuter and tourist traffic, particularly on weekends and holiday periods, which can increase the risk of accidents. Weather conditions and road surfaces are also being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Local authorities have emphasized the importance of driver caution in and around Canmore, a region that sees a high volume of traffic year-round due to its proximity to Banff National Park and the Rocky Mountains. They are urging drivers to slow down, maintain safe distances between vehicles, and remain alert, particularly in areas where traffic congestion or sudden detours are in place.

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing emergency personnel directing traffic, while tow trucks and first responders worked to clear damaged vehicles from the roadway. Some travelers described the situation as chaotic at first, with multiple cars stopped across the lanes and drivers trying to navigate around the accident site before police arrived to secure the area.

RCMP have reassured the public that updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available. For now, westbound traffic on Highway 1 remains diverted, and motorists should continue to expect delays until the roadway is cleared and deemed safe to reopen.

The Alberta RCMP are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the accident to come forward to assist with the investigation.