On Nov. 25, 2025, at approximately 1:49 p.m., Three Hills RCMP responded to a two-vehicle head on collision on Highway 21 near Three Hills. RCMP attended the scene and determined that a truck crossed the centre line into oncoming traffic, colliding with a truck pulling a horse trailer. The driver of the truck pulling the trailer suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

RCMP determined the driver of the truck that crossed into the oncoming lane was impaired by alcohol. He also held a restricted license and was found to not be compliant with the restriction. He was subsequently arrested, and his blood was obtained pursuant to a lawful demand. He was released from custody on an appearance notice. A search warrant executed on the truck located a large quantity of open and closed beer cans.

The driver’s blood was analyzed, and the blood alcohol concentration was determined to be 354 mg%, which is over quadruple the legal limit of 80 mg%.

Chad Gorel (31), a resident of Linden, has been charged with the following:

• Operation while impaired by alcohol causing bodily harm

• Operation while impaired over 80 mg% causing bodily harm

• Drive while suspended or disqualified under immediate roadside sanction

• Turn left unsafely

• Transport liquor in an open container

• Transport liquor within easy access of occupant

Gorel is scheduled to appear at Alberta Court of Justice in Drumheller on Jan. 23, 2026.