Three children lost their lives in a fatal collision caused by an allegedly impaired driver in Toronto’s west end early Sunday morning, May 18, 2025. The crash occurred just after 12:30 a.m. at the eastbound Highway 401 off-ramp at Renforth Drive in Etobicoke, when a Dodge Caravan failed to stop at a red light and collided with a Chrysler Pacifica minivan. The incident resulted in two children dying at the scene and a third succumbing to injuries at the hospital. The driver of the Dodge Caravan, identified as 19-year-old Ethan Lehouillier of Georgetown, was arrested and charged with multiple counts of impaired operation causing death. Authorities continue to investigate the tragedy as the community mourns the loss and calls for renewed attention on the dangers of impaired driving.
The collision occurred in the early hours of May 18, 2025, when a Dodge Caravan driven by Ethan Lehouillier allegedly ran a red light and struck a Chrysler Pacifica minivan at the eastbound Highway 401 off-ramp at Renforth Drive in Etobicoke. Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene and found two children deceased in the minivan. A third child, seriously injured, was transported to a nearby hospital but later died due to the severity of their injuries.
Investigation and Charges
Toronto Police Service conducted an investigation at the scene, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. Based on preliminary findings, officers arrested Lehouillier, 19, of Georgetown. He faces multiple charges related to impaired driving causing death. Police are continuing to examine factors contributing to the collision, including toxicology results and traffic camera footage. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the investigation.
Community Reaction and Safety Concerns
The tragic loss of three young lives has deeply impacted the local community in Etobicoke and the broader Toronto area. Residents and advocacy groups have called for enhanced measures to prevent impaired driving, including stricter enforcement and public education campaigns. Members of the community held vigils to honor the victims and support the grieving families. City officials have also reiterated their commitment to road safety initiatives aimed at reducing similar incidents in the future.
Background on Impaired Driving in Toronto
Impaired driving remains a significant public safety issue in Toronto and across Canada. According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, impaired driving is a leading cause of fatal collisions on provincial roads. Efforts to combat impaired driving include increased roadside checks, public awareness campaigns, and stricter legal penalties for offenders. Despite these measures, incidents involving impaired drivers continue to pose risks to all road users.
Next Steps
- Completion of the toxicology reports and further evidence review by police investigators.
- Legal proceedings against Ethan Lehouillier, including potential court dates and hearings.
- Community and governmental efforts to enhance road safety and prevent impaired driving.
- Support services for the families affected by the tragedy.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have indicated that updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Conclusion
The fatal collision in Etobicoke on May 18, 2025, has underscored the severe consequences of impaired driving, resulting in the loss of three young lives and leaving a lasting impact on the community. With the accused facing serious charges, ongoing investigations aim to clarify all aspects of the incident. The tragedy has intensified calls for stronger preventative measures, including stricter enforcement and public education, to reduce impaired driving occurrences. As legal proceedings advance and support efforts for the affected families continue, authorities and residents alike remain focused on enhancing road safety to prevent similar incidents in the future.
