Salcha man killed in collision with Black Gold ore truck

A Salcha man died this morning when the vehicle he was driving was struck by a double-trailer gold ore truck on Richardson Highway south of Eielson Air Force Base.

Alaska State Troopers say they received a report of the collision around milepost 332, near the intersection of Tom Bear Trail, around 6:30 a.m. According to police, an investigation revealed that the driver of a four-door sedan failed to stop at the intersection and was struck by a truck owned and operated by Black Gold Transport while entering the highway.

Police identified the victim as Temitayo Kalejaiye, who was pronounced dead at the scene. His body will be sent to the State Coroner's Office for an autopsy

Fairbanks-based Black Gold Transport was hired by Kinross Alaska to transport ore from its Manh Choh mine near Tetlin to its mill near Fox. On average, the trucks make 60 round trips every day.

Kinross Alaska issued a statement today saying: “We are devastated by today’s crash. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected and we extend our condolences to the drivers and their families.”

Black Gold issued a statement today saying in part: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the occupants of both vehicles and their families.”

The statement said the company is cooperating with troopers' ongoing investigation.

Editor's Note: This is a breaking story and will be updated shortly.