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Cyclists killed on Sea to Sky highway identified

Ross Chafe and Kelly Blunden were struck by a suspected drunk driver May 31
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Three people are dead following a collision Sunday, May 31, on Highway 99 north of Mount Currie, police said.

Just before noon, Pemberton RCMP received a report of the fatal accident approximately 15 kilometres east of the Birkenhead River involving an alleged drunk driver and a group of cyclists.

The northbound driver reportedly struck three cyclists, killing two, along with a passenger in his own vehicle.

The BC Coroners Service has identified the two cyclists as Ross Chafe, 52, and Kelly Blunden, 53, both active members of the Whistler Cycling Club, and supporters of many other community organizations.

Both men were fathers and key figures in the community. Chafe worked in business development for a flag company. Blunden was the general manager of IT for the Resort Municipality of Whistler.

The vehicle's passenger was Paul Maurice Pierre Jr., 52, a member of the Lil'wat Nation.

A third cyclist escaped the accident, and did not sustain any injuries, confirmed the Whistler Cycling Club.

Police did not have many details to share about the crash on Sunday afternoon.

"Once we are able to interview the witnesses and get a better look at the scene, we’ll know more," said RCMP Staff Sgt. Steve LeClair.

The driver survived the crash and was airlifted to Vancouver hospital. Police have not indicated the extent or nature of his injuries.

Highway 99 was closed in both directions for several hours following the accident.

Police are asking any witnesses to contact Pemberton RCMP at 604-894-6634.

More to come.