Deputy Minister of Environment Michael Prochazka died in a car crash on the Alaska Highway near McClintock Road on Friday.
Environment Minister Nils Clarke sustained injuries in the same incident. Prochazka’s wife, Krista Banwell Prochazka, confirmed his death via social media.
“It is with profound sadness, and much disbelief, that we lost Mike today,” she posted. “Our hearts are shattered.”
Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai expressed condolences in a statement, noting, “We are praying for his family and for Minister Nils Clarke.” Pillai described Prochazka as “a true leader who lifted up those around him.”
Yukon Party Leader Currie Dixon also extended condolences, calling Prochazka’s loss “immeasurable and shocking,” and wished Clarke a speedy recovery.
According to the Yukon RCMP, the collision involved two vehicles and occurred around 5 p.m. Friday. A southbound vehicle collided with another entering the highway. One driver died at the scene, and a passenger was transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
Authorities are investigating the crash, with no further details on the conditions of the injured party at this time.