Mississauga (Rajeev Sharma): Four teenagers aged between 15 and 19 were killed and two others injured after a car veered off the road and plunged into a ravine in Canada’s Ontario province early Saturday. The crash occurred in a rural area of Puslinch, southeast of Guelph.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) said officers were alerted shortly after 1:30 am on Saturday following reports of a single-vehicle crash near Watson Road South and Wellington Road 34. The vehicle reportedly left the road, struck a guardrail and fell into a ravine.
OPP Inspector Karen Madeiros confirmed the identities and ages of the four victims during a press conference on Sunday. They included two 19-year-old men from Mississauga and Brampton, a 17-year-old girl from Mississauga and a 15-year-old girl from Milton.
Calling the incident an “unimaginable tragedy”, Madeiros said the crash had affected several families, schools, friendship groups and communities across southern Ontario.
Two other girls from Mississauga, aged 17 and 16, survived the crash but sustained injuries. The 17-year-old suffered life-altering injuries, while the 16-year-old’s injuries were described as non-life-threatening. Both remained in hospital, according to police.
OPP investigates what led to fatal Puslinch crash
Police said the investigation is ongoing, with officers examining the circumstances leading up to the accident.
Madeiros said investigators would look into whether speed and seatbelt use played a role. She also noted that the vehicle was not believed to have had enough seatbelts for all six occupants.
The inspector urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information, including video footage, to contact Wellington County OPP. She said even details that might appear insignificant could help investigators establish what happened.
Superintendent Wendy Burrow offered condolences to the families and friends of those killed, describing the incident as a devastating loss of young lives. She said the OPP would support those affected and make every effort to provide answers through a thorough investigation.
Roads closed after crash as investigation continues
Roads in the area remained closed because of damage to the guardrail and to ensure the safety of other road users. Police said the affected routes would reopen once they were considered safe.
The OPP has appealed to motorists to remain vigilant and follow road safety measures as the investigation continues.
