Alex Garneau, a mother of two from Prince George, British Columbia, died on August 20 after a small charter plane crashed into her vehicle on a highway. The aircraft, operated by Sekani Air, lost power mid-flight and collided with four vehicles, crossing three lanes of traffic.
Garneau was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other passengers in vehicles involved in the crash were transported to a hospital and reported to be in stable condition. The eight people aboard the plane were unharmed.
Friends and family described Garneau as a devoted mother and active community member. A GoFundMe campaign established in her memory highlighted her involvement in her children's hockey and volleyball activities, noting her dedication as a "hockey mom" and her broader role in supporting those around her. She was remembered for her warmth, kindness, and ability to make others feel welcome.
Another GoFundMe, initiated by the Junior Ducks Hockey Club, also paid tribute to Garneau, emphasizing her significant contributions to the children's sports teams and her role within the hockey community.
Before her death, Garneau was also recognized for her athletic achievements. She was a two-time provincial champion in volleyball with the Prince George Youth Volleyball Club and a member of Team BC before playing collegiately at Capilano University. After her playing career, she also coached within the league.
The Beech King Air 200 plane was en route to a remote airstrip near Prince George when it experienced engine trouble and initiated an emergency landing on Foothills Boulevard, the site of the fatal crash. The Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident, with a full report expected to take several months. Preliminary data suggests one of the plane's engines failed.