Driver, 69, dies after semi strikes SUV on Edmonton's Yellowhead Trail

A 69-year-old man died in hospital Thursday after the SUV he was driving collided with a semi-trailer in north Edmonton.

Police said that around 2:40 a.m. Thursday, a 2008 Ford Escape SUV was rear-ended by a fully-loaded semi-trailer while both vehicles were travelling east on Yellowhead Trail near 142nd Street.

Police said the semi-trailer was travelling in the outside lane when the Escape suddenly changed lanes, moving directly into the outside lane in front of the semi. The Escape was struck by the semi and sent off the road.

"Initially, the 69-year-old driver of the Ford Escape appeared to have only sustained minor injuries while on scene," police said in a news release. "The male was then taken to hospital, where his condition deteriorated. He eventually succumbed to his injuries later this morning.

"It is unknown at this time whether the 69-year-old male died from injuries incurred as a result of the collision, or whether he had a pre-existing medical condition."

The 29-year-old man driving the semi-trailer was not injured, and neither was his passenger, police said.

They said speed and alcohol were not factors in the collision.

Police initially reported that an eastbound minivan was stopped at a red light at the intersection of Yellowhead Trail and 149th Street when it was hit from behind.

The collision continues to be under investigation by police.