Five young siblings have lost their lives, and an infant is among the six others injured after a two-vehicle accident in rural Ontario.
The Ontario Provincial Police report that the children, four girls and one boy, were aged 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12. Their baby sibling and parents sustained serious injuries, along with two older adults believed to be their grandparents.
The incident took place around 7:30 p. m. on Friday evening in Mapleton Township, located northwest of Kitchener, at the intersection of 4th Line and Wellington Road 12.
According to investigators, a van carrying ten people collided with a sport utility vehicle occupied by one individual at the intersection.
The SUV driver was also admitted to the hospital with critical injuries.
“This is an unimaginable loss,” OPP Superintendent Dwight Thib expressed during a press conference at police headquarters in Fergus, Ont.
Thib extended his gratitude to the “Good Samaritans” who assisted first responders at the scene and mentioned that victims received “immediate care.”
At least three individuals were airlifted to different trauma centers while others were taken to local hospitals.
They were transported to various hospitals due to the “chaotic” situation following the crash, noted OPP Const. Matthew Burton.
Gregg Davidson, mayor of Mapleton Township, stated he hasn’t confirmed if the victims are residents of the area.
“Our hearts go out to the family members involved and friends of the family,” Davidson said. “So many lost their lives in this one crash.”
The mayor mentioned that support is available for volunteer firefighters and other first responders who responded to this tragic event.
“It’s certainly not something you would want to come upon,” Davidson remarked.
“Our community is strong and resilient,” he added. “We’ll respond with kindness and love as we always do.”
In a social media post, Ontario Premier Doug Ford shared his thoughts are with those affected as well as their families and loved ones.
“This heartbreaking loss is felt throughout our community and across the province,” Ford said while urging residents to unite in light of this tragedy.
Officials stated they couldn’t comment on specific details surrounding the collision yet, including whether seatbelts were properly utilized.
The police are investigating all aspects of this crash, Thib indicated.
This report by The Canadian Press was first June 13, 2026.
Elissa Mendes, The Canadian Press
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