Six Killed in Jasper Highway Crash: Bystanders Perform CPR in Tragic Emergency
A tragic collision on the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park claimed the lives of six people, including two American tourists, in one of the region’s most devastating crashes in recent years. The incident occurred around 5 p.m. near the Honeymoon Lake campground—an area known for its breathtaking scenery and heavy summer traffic.
What Happened
According to RCMP Cpl. Laurel Scott, a van carrying five family members from Louisiana and Texas was travelling north when it collided with a southbound vehicle. The impact caused both vehicles to ignite almost instantly.All four occupants of the southbound vehicle were killed. In the van, two American passengers—identified as Angela Elkins of Louisiana and her son-in-law Nick Copeland of Texas—also died at the scene.
Two family members, Curtis and Sarah Elkins, were transported to Edmonton hospitals in serious condition. In a remarkable stroke of luck, a two-year-old child in the van survived without injuries.
Heroic Bystander Response
Passing motorists immediately pulled over to help after spotting heavy smoke rising from the highway. Among them was a retired firefighter from Australia who assisted in rescuing victims from the burning vehicles.
Witness Gagan Sidhu of Surrey, B.C., described seeing people performing CPR, offering blankets, and providing drinks to survivors. Tragically, two severely injured men died despite bystanders’ efforts.
Sidhu was handed a fire extinguisher and worked with others to prevent flames from spreading into nearby grass and forested areas.
“People really gave their all … to help out,” he said.
RCMP Sgt. Rick Bidaisee later thanked the public for their quick actions and bravery.
Additional Vehicles Impacted
A third vehicle swerved off the road to avoid the crash, leaving two occupants with minor injuries. Highway 93 North remained closed overnight. When it reopened the next morning, only burn marks on the road remained as evidence of the catastrophic collision.
Emergency Response
STARS air ambulance transported a 26-year-old woman to Edmonton in critical condition, while another woman was taken to Jasper hospital in stable condition. This tragedy was one of several fatal crashes reported across Alberta that same week.
Why First Aid Training Matters
This heartbreaking event shows how quickly emergencies can unfold—and how crucial bystander intervention can be. Several motorists administered CPR and assisted victims before paramedics arrived, demonstrating the importance of having lifesaving skills.
To learn how to respond confidently in emergencies, consider taking a certified course through Calgary First Aid – First Aid Courses.
Learn More
For more details about this story, you can read the full original article from the Edmonton Journal here:
👉 Six people including two Americans killed in Jasper highway crash
Additional resources on CPR and first aid:
Serving Calgary and the surrounding areas the lowest priced, highest quality OH&S approved first aid training, CPR and food safety courses for over 15 years!
Support locally-owned and Canadian-operated businesses, with no partnerships or links with American corporations.