RCMP investigating highway crash in northern Manitoba that killed NDP MLA

Manitoba NDP has confirmed Danielle Adams, the MLA for Thompson, died in a car accident on Dec. 9, 2021. (Source: Manitoba NDP)

WINNIPEG -

RCMP are investigating a deadly crash in northern Manitoba involving the NDP legislature member for Thompson.

Mounties say in a release that the two-vehicle collision happened Thursday about 50 kilometres south of Ponton.

They say an initial investigation determined a vehicle travelling south collided with a semi-truck travelling north on Highway 6.

RCMP say MLA Danielle Adams, 38, was the driver of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the semi-truck, a 54-year-old man, was not injured.

Police say road conditions were poor at the time, and speed and alcohol do not appear to be factors.

Adams was first elected in 2019 and served as the party's critic for child care, housing, disability and poverty matters.

She is survived by two young sons and a husband.

NDP Leader Wab Kinew called her death heartbreaking. He described Adams as a young, caring mother who wore her heart on her sleeve.

Premier Heather Stefanson said Adams will be greatly missed in the Manitoba legislature.

"As the first female elected to represent the constituency of Thompson, she will be remembered as a strong voice for northern Manitoba and a staunch advocate for child care, housing, poverty reduction and supporting Manitobans with disabilities," Stefanson said in a statement Friday.

News of Adams's death made it to the floor of the House of Commons on Friday when Manitoba NDP MP Leah Gazan shared a few words during her members statement.

"Danielle was a strong advocate for the north and for people, fighting for accessible, affordable child care. She was a kind, loving and respected colleague to many," Gazan said.

"Danielle may you fly with the eagles. Rest in peace."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 10, 2021.