Police closed off First Roots Early Education Academy in Richmond Hill, Ont., on Wednesday after a car crashed through its front window. The Canadian Press
A tragic scene unfolded in Richmond Hill on Wednesday afternoon when an SUV crashed into a daycare, killing a toddler and injuring several others. Police confirmed a 1½-year-old boy died at the scene. Another child suffered serious injuries, while five more children and three staff members had non-life-threatening injuries.
Chaotic moments
The incident happened at First Roots Early Education Academy, located at Yonge Street and Nottingham Drive. Around 3 p.m., the vehicle drove through the building’s front window. Constable Kevin Nebrija said the SUV had been in the parking lot when it suddenly accelerated into the daycare.
“As you can imagine, this was a very chaotic scene,” Constable Nebrija said. Police arrested the driver, a man in his 70s, but said they do not believe the crash was intentional. No charges have been laid.
Daycare and community response
The daycare, which cares for nearly 100 children aged three months to six years, described itself as “heartbroken and deeply saddened” in a public statement. Staff expressed condolences to the family of the child who died. All other children at the daycare were accounted for, and parents were notified quickly.
Scene after the crash
By evening, police tape surrounded the building. Shattered glass covered the area where the SUV had entered, leaving a gaping hole in the wall. Small children’s chairs and toys were visible inside. Firefighters carefully removed the damaged Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV from the building and loaded it onto a flatbed truck.
Neighbours and passersby gathered outside, many in silence. Some snapped photos, while others simply watched with shock. Brandon Tito, a father of two who works nearby, said the scene left him shaken. “It’s totally tragic to fathom,” he said.
Leaders speak out
Richmond Hill Mayor David West called the incident “profoundly unsettling.” He praised first responders for their swift and compassionate actions. “As a parent myself, I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the child who passed away,” he said.
Vincent Ho, the local member of Parliament, also shared words of sympathy. “No parent should ever fear for their child’s safety in a place meant to nurture and protect,” he said, adding his heart goes out to all families affected.
Investigation ongoing
Police continue to investigate the cause of the crash. They said they are working to determine why the driver lost control and what led to the tragedy. The community, meanwhile, is left grieving and searching for answers.
