U.S. hunter charged in Sask. crash that killed 3 still in hospital as court process begins

South Carolina man Kelly Knopf, 40, faces 6 dangerous driving charges

Signs of mourning are on display in Foam Lake, Sask., after the recent deaths of three community members. Several homes in the town, about 150 kilometres northeast of Regina, have stuffed animals on their doorsteps to honour two young girls who died.

The girls, aged five and eight, and a 40-year-old woman were killed when a truck trying to pass a semi collided with their SUV, according to an RCMP news release. A man who was with them in the SUV was taken to hospital by STARS air ambulance with serious injuries.

People in Foam Lake told CBC that the four people in the SUV were a family. Their identities have not been released.

The driver of the truck, 40-year-old Kelly Knopf from Sumter, S.C., and a passenger were taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life threatening. Another passenger with serious injuries was airlifted by STARS, RCMP say.

Woman, 2 children dead after serious collision near Foam Lake, Sask.

Knopf was arrested after an investigation and charged with three counts each of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death and dangerous operation of a vehicle causing bodily harm.

He is set to be transported to the Regina correctional centre Monday.

Knopf was scheduled to appear in Yorkton provincial court on the charges Monday, but was still in hospital. His lawyer, Brian Pfefferle, appeared via phone.

Pfefferle provided CBC with a statement on Knopf's behalf. It said there is no indication at this time that alcohol, drugs, or excessive speed were factors in the crash.

"We are still awaiting full particulars of the allegations."

Pfefferle said Knopf had travelled to Saskatchewan from South Carolina on a hunting trip, something he has done for several years.

"As a result, he has a connection to many in the area. He and his family are deeply grateful for the support and compassion they have received from the community as they navigate the many consequences of this tragedy which has impacted their community."

Pfefferle said he expects to address Knopf's release on Wednesday.

American hunter charged in Foam Lake crash that killed 3

Randi LaRocque is a Métis woman working as a reporter with CBC Saskatchewan. She can be reached at randi.larocque@cbc.ca