KELOWNA, B.C. — Former Alberta premier Jim Prentice has been killed in plane crash in British Columbia.
Media reports are citing sources that say Prentice was on board the small jet that went down Thursday night after taking off from the Kelowna airport.
The plane was en route to the Springbank airport, outside Calgary.
The Transportation Safety Board says all four people on board died.
Prentice, 60, also a former federal cabinet minister, quit politics last May after the Alberta NDP swept the Progressive Conservatives from power.
A team of investigators from the transportation board was on its way to the scene of the crash northeast of Winfield, about 18 kilometres north of Kelowna.
Board spokesman Bill Yearwood said the Cessna Citation aircraft crashed about 10:30 p.m. Thursday.
He did not have information about the people on board the plane, or what might have caused it to crash.
RCMP Cpl. Dan Moskaluk said police were alerted when the private business-style jet lost radar contact and officers are secured the scene.
"Investigators located the crash site approximately four kilometres into a heavily wooded area east of Lake Country," Moskaluk said in a news release.
"We are organizing a team to deploy to the accident site."
PREMIER CLARK'S STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF JIM PRENTICE
Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement on the death of former Alberta premier Jim Prentice:
“Like many Canadians, I was shocked to hear the news about Jim Prentice.
“This is a terrible loss for our country. It’s a rare privilege to meet people of Jim’s character in any walk of life. He was a man of his word, would keep confidences, and his handshake was worth more than any written agreement.
“Simply by being himself, Jim Prentice elevated political discourse in this country with his dignity, kindness, and focus. Jim devoted his life to making Canada better – and he succeeded.
“Jim had a remarkable and distinguished career, but I think he took the most pride in being a husband, father, and grandfather. My thoughts are with Jim’s family.”
FRIENDS, COLLEAGUES EXPRESS CONDOLENCES ON DEATH OF FORMER PREMIER JIM PRENTICE
— "It is incredibly sad for Albertans and Canadians ... Jim was an incredibly passionate, wonderful fine person. He felt deeply about people and whether there was opportunity for them." Former Alberta health minister Stephen Mandel.
— "I enjoyed working with Jim Prentice when he was a key federal cabinet minister and then as premier of our closest friend and neighbour, Alberta. Tami and I express our deepest condolences to Jim's family and friends and to all Albertans. This is a deep loss for all of Canada." Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall.
— "Jim came to see me when I became mayor —one of my very first meetings, in fact — and he helped me navigate those tough first few weeks. Even after he left federal politics, he was an important part of this city and always ready to help however he could." Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi.
— "I will remember Jim Prentice as one of the most affable, respected public servants, whose humility emboldened his intellect. Rest in peace." Conservative Member of Parliament Lisa Raitt.
— "Jim leaves a rich legacy of public service and loyal representation federally and provincially. However, of special note was his genuine commitment to, and work on behalf of First Nations people in Canada. Jim brought his remarkable work-ethic, intellect and passion to bear on matters critical to the improvement of quality of life for First Nations people." Roy Whitney, Chief of the Tsuut'ina First Nation.
— "Jim was a consistent voice for a stronger, more united Canada. Most importantly, Jim was a good friend, a caring father and grandfather, and loving husband. My heart goes out to his wife Karen and to all those who were close to him." Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister.
