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Crane Truck Brings Down Power Lines and Closes Malahat Highway

RCMP say the truck’s extended crane pulled down five hydro poles, creating fire and safety risks that will require repairs.

The truck brought down power lines on the Malahat on Thursday afternoon.
DriveBC webcams showing power lines down across the highway on the Malahat on July 9, 2026.

Overview

  • The truck, which snagged overhead lines while turning with its crane extended around 3:40 p.m. Thursday, pulled down poles and wires across both lanes of the Trans‑Canada Highway and South Shawnigan Lake Road.
  • RCMP investigators confirmed the crane caused the damage and that five hydro poles were broken or compromised in the incident.
  • A small brush fire started where the lines fell and was quickly put out by a passing motorist with a fire extinguisher, and there were no reported injuries.
  • The highway was closed in both directions for several hours and then reopened with single‑lane traffic before full restoration while utility crews begin repairs.
  • Emcon Services has confirmed the vehicle involved was one of its trucks and said it is conducting an internal investigation as it cooperates with authorities on repairs and next steps.