A 58-year-old man from Steinbach was found dead after his pickup truck was engulfed in flames at a cornfield in southern Manitoba on Sunday. The incident unfolded when RCMP officers were patrolling on Highway 201 near Highway 59 around 11 a.m., and they noticed a plume of black smoke billowing from a tree line.

Officers followed the smoke to a property where they found a pickup truck on fire, RCMP said in a news release Thursday. Firefighters extinguished the blaze and found the truck driver. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. 

RCMP have not identified the man but said an autopsy is being done to determine the cause of death, which at this time appears not to be suspicious.  

Investigation Into Fatal Fire

Investigators have determined the driver was travelling west on Highway 201 when his truck entered a ditch, then continued into a cornfield before coming to a stop at the tree line. RCMP said corn stalks under the truck caught on fire due to the heat emanating from the vehicle. 

Finding the Cause

The investigation into the fire is ongoing. RCMP said they are still looking into what caused the truck to leave the road and enter the ditch. However, they believe the fire was started by the heat from the truck, which ignited the corn stalks beneath it. 

Aftermath of the Tragedy

The death of the 58-year-old man has sent shockwaves through the community. Many people are expressing their condolences to the man's family and friends. The incident also serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving in rural areas.

The RCMP are urging drivers to be cautious when driving in rural areas. They said that drivers should be aware of their surroundings and be prepared for unexpected situations. Drivers should also make sure their vehicles are in good working order and that they have plenty of fuel before heading out on a trip. The RCMP also recommends that drivers take breaks every two hours to avoid fatigue. Fatigue is a major factor in many accidents.

Lessons Learned

This tragic incident highlights the importance of driver safety. It is crucial to be aware of your surroundings, to avoid distractions, and to maintain a safe speed. The investigation is ongoing, and the RCMP will release further updates as they become available.

The man's death is a reminder of the dangers of driving. It is important to be cautious and to always be aware of your surroundings.