The off-roading community in British Columbia and beyond is mourning the loss of Stacey Tourout and Matthew Yeomans, a Nanaimo couple known worldwide for their YouTube channel Toyota World Runners.
The pair had built a loyal audience of more than 200,000 subscribers on YouTube and tens of thousands of Instagram followers, documenting their travels in a custom-built 1976 Toyota Chinook Land Cruiser. Their videos followed remote routes across North and South America, showcasing rugged landscapes, mechanical challenges, and the tight-knit global overlanding community.
On August 7, 2025, while exploring the backcountry near Trout Lake in B.C.’s Purcell Mountains, the couple’s vehicle left a narrow alpine road and rolled into steep terrain. Search and rescue teams from Kaslo were dispatched after receiving their GPS coordinates. Despite the rapid response, one person was pronounced dead at the scene. The other was transported to hospital but later died from their injuries.
The tragic news was confirmed by Stacey’s mother, Colleen Tourout, who described their passing as “the devastating end to an amazing love story” and thanked friends, family, and followers for their support during this time.
Longtime friend and fellow off-roader Colin Stuart, who was travelling with them, described the accident as “the hardest 20 hours I have ever lived,” underscoring how sudden and devastating the incident was for those present.
Their final video, posted just days before the accident, now serves as a poignant reminder of their shared passion and the community they built. Comments from viewers across the world reflect not just admiration for their adventures, but gratitude for the way they inspired others to explore with respect and curiosity.
Stacey and Matthew’s passing is being felt deeply within the Canadian off-roading scene and by their followers globally. Friends, family, and fans continue to share memories and tributes online, ensuring their legacy of exploration and connection lives on.
