Northbound lanes from McKenzie Avenue to Helmcken Road were closed on Thursday afternoon

Update: The Saanich Police confirmed the Trans-Canada Highway northbound lanes reopened around 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 2, following a serious collision.

A motor-vehicle incident in Saanich this afternoon has slowed traffic along the Trans-Canada Highway. 

Saanich Police (SPD) says the “serious” collision occurred in the 1100 block of the Trans-Canada Highway. 

Northbound lanes from McKenzie Avenue to Helmcken Road are closed, and motorists have been advised to avoid the area.

“Our SPD collision analysts are working to make the scene safe and determine the cause,” Insp. Damian Kowalewich said in a news release. “We extend our gratitude to our emergency partners for their professionalism and compassion at the scene.”

The incident has caused traffic congestion in Saanich and neighbouring areas. On Gorge Road West traffic was at a standstill around 4 p.m., vehicles moving two-cars length in 15 minutes.

On social media, drivers reported that traffic was also backed up on Tillicum and Burnside roads.

“Took about 45 minutes from the mall (Tillicum) to Burnside near Wilkinson,” commented one person on a Facebook post.

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Traffic on Gorge Road West is at a standstill while Saanich Police respond to a serious collision in the 1100 block of the Trans-Canada Highway. . Dan Ebenal/Saanich News

Saanich Fire and ambulance paramedics have also responded to the crash.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area is asked to contact the Saanich Police at 250-475-4321.

More to come.