A Toronto family is mourning the loss of three children following a fatal collision on Victoria Day weekend, which occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday in Etobicoke. The crash involved a suspected impaired 19-year-old driver who struck a minivan stopped at a red light on the eastbound Renforth Drive off-ramp of Highway 401. Two children died at the scene, while a third succumbed to injuries in hospital. Three others, including the children’s mother and the minivan driver, were hospitalized. The incident has sparked renewed calls for stronger measures against impaired driving as authorities continue their investigation.
Details of the Collision
The fatal crash took place shortly after midnight on Sunday, May 21, 2024, on the eastbound Renforth Drive off-ramp of Highway 401 in Etobicoke, Toronto. According to police reports, the 19-year-old suspect was driving under the influence when their vehicle struck a minivan that had stopped at a red light. The impact caused severe injuries to the passengers inside the minivan.
Victims and Injuries
Tragically, two children inside the minivan were pronounced dead at the scene. A third child was rushed to a local hospital but later died from injuries sustained in the crash. The mother of the children and the driver of the minivan were also hospitalized but are currently in stable condition. The identities of the victims have not been publicly released pending family notification.
Suspect Arrest and Charges
The 19-year-old suspect was taken into custody at the scene. Toronto Police have confirmed that the individual is facing charges related to impaired driving causing death and bodily harm. Officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading up to the collision, including conducting toxicology tests and gathering witness statements.
Community Response and Safety Measures
The devastating incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for stronger enforcement against impaired driving in Toronto and surrounding areas. Local community leaders and advocacy groups are urging government authorities to implement more rigorous road safety campaigns and enhance penalties for offenders. Additionally, police have increased sobriety checkpoints throughout the city on holiday weekends to deter impaired driving.
Ongoing Investigation
Toronto Police Service has stated that the investigation remains active, and further details will be released as they become available. Authorities are urging anyone with information or who witnessed the crash to come forward. The police remind the public of the dangers associated with impaired driving and the importance of responsible behaviour on the road.
Conclusion
This tragic collision on Victoria Day weekend underscores the severe consequences of impaired driving. The loss of three young lives has deeply affected the community and reinforced the need for continuous efforts in road safety and prevention measures to protect all road users.
This tragic collision on Victoria Day weekend underscores the severe consequences of impaired driving. The loss of three young lives has deeply affected the community and reinforced the need for continuous efforts in road safety and prevention measures to protect all road users. As the investigation proceeds, authorities and community members alike emphasize the importance of vigilance and responsible driving to prevent similar incidents in the future.