14 dead after Humboldt Broncos bus, semi collide

RCMP say 14 people are dead after a crash involving a Saskatchewan Junior Hockey Team.

The Humboldt Broncos team bus collided with a semi-trailer late Friday afternoon.

RCMP confirmed that 29 people were on the bus at the time of the collision.

The other 15 people on the bus were taken to hospital with numerous injuries. Three of those injuries are critical.

“We are not confirming the identity of the victims at this time, including whether the deceased are players or coaches,” the RCMP said in a statement. “We will be working with our partner agencies to ensure families are notified as soon as possible and the appropriate supports are provided to families and others who are impacted by this extremely tragic incident.”

The team was on its way to Nipawin for a playoff game.

Parents and family seeking further information on those onboard the bus are being asked to call 306-752-8700.

The vehicles collided on Highway 35, about 30 kilometres north of Tisdale at the junction of Highway 335.

Traffic will be blocked or restricted for several hours, so drivers can expect lengthy delays.

The Nipawin Apostolic Church at 109-4th Avenue East in Nipawin, Sask. has been established as a place for families to gather.

Premier Scott Moe took time to acknowledge the incident and extend his condolences to those involved.

Words can not describe the loss that we feel tonight.

From a grieving province, thank you to first responders & medical professionals for courageous response under the most difficult circumstances imaginable.

Tonight, we all must pray for these families.https://t.co/dEnhKMkDxJ

— Scott Moe (@PremierScottMoe) April 7, 2018

RCMP will be releasing further information will be available on Saturday morning.

*This story has been updated to reflect new information issued by RCMP. It was originally reported that 28 people were on board the bus. This has been updated to 29. The number of injured transported to hospital has also been updated from 14 to 15.