The Wood Buffalo RCMP was investigating an ATV accident that resulted in a death in the area of Saprae Creek. The death involved a 57 year old man, and the accident was reported at approximately 9:50 pm on April 28. The accident occurred southeast of Fort MacMurray and the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators in the case report that the 57 year old man was riding ATVs with some friends in the area. One of the vehicles became stuck and the man was attempting to help pull it free with his ATV. The man lost control of his vehicle when going downhill. The driver was not wearing a helmet and when he lost control he went over the handlebars of the vehicle. The ATV then landed on him and caused serious head trauma.

According to the Wood Buffalo RCMP the ATV accident is not suspected to have been caused by alcohol although the investigation is continuing. The driver was from the local Saprae Creek region. The ATV accident is a reminder to everyone who enjoys these types of outdoor activities how important wearing a helmet can be. As the temperatures warm up and nice weather becomes typical in Wood Buffalo more people will be spending time outside. This means more opportunities for injuries and accidents to occur, especially if the proper safety equipment is not utilized.. The ATV accident appears to be just that though, and it is not known whether the driver would have fared better if he had been wearing a helmet due t the nature and cause of his injuries.