Crash in Ontario leaves 5 children dead: OPP

Ontario Provincial Police say five children were killed and several other people were seriously injured following a two-vehicle collision in Wellington County on Friday evening.

The crash happened around 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of Wellington Road 12 and Fourth Lane in Mapleton Township, northwest of Guelph.

Investigators said a passenger van carrying ten people and a sport utility vehicle carrying one person collided at the intersection.

Tragically, five children lost their lives. “I am sure the victims are related,” said Inspector Dwight Thib, in a press conference, Saturday afternoon.

Four girls and one boy aged between four and 12 were killed, Thib said.

“This is an unimaginable loss. “On behalf of the Ontario Provincial Police, I offer our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones and community during this very difficult time,” he added.

Four adults and one baby suffered serious injuries and remain in hospital.

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The driver of the SUV was also transported with serious injuries and remains hospitalized.

Thib thanked the emergency responders who attended the scene and provided immediate treatment.

“I would also like to thank the Good Samaritans who stopped and provided assistance to our first responders during this tragedy,” he said.

In his post on X, Doug Ford expressed his condolences.

“My thoughts go out to the families and loved ones of the children who were killed in the tragic collision that occurred yesterday in Mapleton Township, and to those who are currently hospitalized.”

“Let us all stand together with those who are grieving during this terrible time,” he further wrote.

In a video update posted last night, OPP Const. Matt Burton described the incident as a “serious collision that resulted in multiple injuries and loss of life.”

Burton said three patients were flown to trauma centers, while several others were taken to local hospitals.

The OPP’s traffic incident management and enforcement team is now assisting with the investigation.

Police said they were not providing further details as they attempted to notify the victim’s next of kin.

The intersection was closed for hours as investigators examined the scene but later reopened.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage is asked to contact Wellington County OPP.

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