Skip to content
Join our Newsletter
  1. Home
  2. Local News

'I was devastated': Prince George MPs saddened by multiple Canadian deaths on Ukrainian airline crash in Iran

A total of 176 dead, including 63 Canadians
Jess Balzer
Jess Balzer
DohertyZimmer1
(via Todd Doherty/TWitter and Jess Fedigan)

Both Prince George MPs are expressing their sadness after 63 Canadians were killed in a plane crash in Iran today (Jan. 8). 

A Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737-800 took off from Tehran’s International Airport en route to Kiev, but crashed minutes later. 

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko said the plane was carrying 63 Canadians, 82 Iranians, 11 Ukrainian passengers and crew, 10 Swedes, four Afghans, three Germans and three Britons.

Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty, who is the Shadow Minister for Transport, says he was 'devastated' to hear of the multiple Canadian deaths as well the others on board. 

'I was devastated to hear news that 63 of our fellow Canadians were killed in a plane crash in Iral last night and wish to express my heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the families and friends of all those lost in this terrible tragedy," he says in a statement.

"While it is early and the details of the cause of this crash remain to be seen, I am firmly committed to working with the Minister of Transport in pursuit of the answers the families and these Canadian victims expect in this most difficult time." 

Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies MP Bob Zimmer also released a statement on the incident. 

“I was saddened to hear of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash which has claimed the lives of 63 Canadians," he says. "My thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost their lives in this tragedy and we mourn with those who lost loved ones today."

“While it is still early in the investigation, I hope the families of these victims will soon have answers for what caused this crash.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his condolences and shock of the tragedy in a statement from his office.

"This morning, I join Canadians across the country who are shocked and saddened to see reports that a plane crash outside of Tehran, Iran, has claimed the lives of 176 people, including 63 Canadians," Trudeau said. 

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to those who have lost family, friends, and loved ones in this tragedy. Our government will continue to work closely with its international partners to ensure that this crash is thoroughly investigated, and that Canadians’ questions are answered. Today, I assure all Canadians that their safety and security is our top priority. We also join with the other countries who are mourning the loss of citizens."

“Minister Champagne has been in touch with the government of Ukraine, and is speaking to relevant authorities and to international partners. Minister Garneau is also working with officials from Transport Canada, and is reaching out to his international counterparts."

The release adds friends and relatives of Canadian citizens believed to be on board can contact Global Affairs Canada's 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 613-996-8885 or 1-800-387-312 or by sending an email to [email protected].

Canadian citizens in Iran requiring consular assistance should contact the Canadian Embassy in Ankara at +90 (312) 409 2700 or call Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre at +1 613-996-8885.