Whitby, Ontario – A tragic wrong-way collision on Highway 401 in Whitby, Ontario, resulted in the loss of four lives, including that of an infant, according to Ontario’s police watchdog. The incident unfolded following a robbery in Clarington, where a vehicle fleeing the scene entered the highway in the wrong direction, as revealed by Durham police.
The pursuit of the suspect vehicle by law enforcement in response to the robbery is currently under investigation by the Special Investigations Unit (SIU). Dashcam footage received by CP24 captured the harrowing moment when a vehicle in the right lane swerved off the highway to avoid a van approaching in the wrong direction. A police cruiser, with its lights flashing, was seen trailing the van.
Images taken by motorists stranded on the highway in the aftermath of the crash depicted a transport truck with its front cab severely damaged, emitting smoke at the crash site. Authorities initially confirmed the presence of fatalities following the collision, although specific details regarding the number of deceased individuals were not immediately disclosed. Additionally, the identities of those who tragically lost their lives have not been released by the police.
The shutdown of a portion of Highway 401 in Whitby was imperative due to the fiery crash, which necessitated the closure of both eastbound and westbound lanes between exit 406 (Lake Ridge Road/County Road 23) and exit 410 (Brock Street/County Road 46). Throughout the night and into the morning rush, traffic disruptions persisted as emergency crews worked tirelessly at the scene.
By 8 a.m., some westbound lanes were reopened, easing traffic congestion. Subsequently, the Ontario Provincial Police confirmed full restoration of highway access in both directions by 9:45 a.m., allowing for the resumption of normal traffic flow. The SIU is slated to furnish additional details pertaining to its ongoing investigation later in the day, as the community mourns the devastating loss of life in this horrific incident.