A tragic incident unfolded in Richmond Hill as two vehicles collided, resulting in the death of a pedestrian and leaving another with severe injuries. The collision occurred at the junction of Major Mackenzie Drive and Leslie Street, prompting a response from the York Regional Police following reports of a two-vehicle crash at 4:10 p.m.
Upon arrival, authorities discovered that the pedestrians had been struck while walking on the sidewalk, not inside a nearby bus shelter. Regrettably, a 65-year-old man from Vaughan lost his life at the scene, while a second pedestrian was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, and the third pedestrian sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The identities of the victims are being withheld to respect their families, as efforts are made to notify their next of kin. Staff Sgt. Stephen McKenzie confirmed that a light standard was knocked down during the collision but had been restored by the time CBC Toronto journalists arrived.
While details regarding the speed of the vehicles remain unclear, there is currently no indication of impaired driving playing a role in the tragic incident. Both drivers involved in the collision cooperated with authorities and stayed at the scene.
An eyewitness, Endre Teleki, recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing the crash, describing a speeding vehicle entering the intersection and colliding with another vehicle on Leslie Street. Teleki, who was near the scene, had to quickly move out of harm’s way by jumping over a barrier.
The York Regional Police’s major collision investigation unit has taken over the case to explore all potential factors contributing to the collision. Individuals who witnessed the incident or possess relevant dashboard camera footage are encouraged to provide their accounts to aid in the investigation.