Yukon deputy environment minister killed in fatal crash on Alaska Highway

Yukon's deputy minister of Environment, Michael Prochazka, died in a car crash on the Alaska Highway near McClintock Road Friday.

Environment Minister Nils Clarke was also injured in the crash.

Prochazka's wife, Krista Banwell Prochazka, confirmed he died in a social media post.

"It is with profound sadness, and much disbelief, that we lost Mike today in the car crash at McClintock," she wrote. "After almost 26 years as my constant companion, and 'the very best dad one could ask for' our hearts are shattered."

Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai offered his condolences in a social media statement Saturday.

"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of deputy minister of the Environment Michael Prochazka. We are praying for his family, and for Minister Nils Clarke, who was injured in the same accident," he said.

In another statement distributed to media, Pillai described Prochazka as "a true leader who lifted up those around him."

"He was not just the top public servant at the department of Environment, he was funny and kind. He celebrated the work and dedication of department of Environment staff. He empowered those working for him, and most importantly, was always available to lend a kind word and a helping hand to anyone who needed it," Pillai wrote in the statement.

In a statement posted to Facebook Saturday, Yukon Party Leader Currie Dixon offered his condolences to Prochazka's family and friends.

"For those who knew him, his loss is immeasurable and shocking," he wrote. "I would also like to offer our best wishes to Minister Nils Clarke for a speedy recovery from whatever injuries he has sustained."

Yukon RCMP are currently investigating the collision that killed Prochazka. 

According to a Saturday news release, the two-car collision occurred when a vehicle travelling southbound hit another vehicle entering the highway. Police and EMS arrived at the scene at around 5 p.m. Friday.

The driver of the car that was hit died during the collision, and a passenger in the car was transported to hospital with serious injuries, the release said.

A section of the Alaska Highway is closed because of the investigation. Anyone travelling on the Highway is asked to take a detour along Tagish Road and the South Klondike Highway to avoid the closure. Detailed information on Yukon highway conditions can be found at 511 Yukon.