Emergency responders are present at the scene where a boy was tragically hit and killed by a GO train in Mississauga on Wednesday afternoon. (CBC)
A tragic incident unfolded in Mississauga on Wednesday afternoon when a young boy was fatally struck by a westbound GO train. The boy, believed to be around 12 or 13 years old, was hit near a crossing close to Alexandra Avenue and Fourth Street.
Details of the Incident
Peel Regional Police were called to the scene shortly before 3 p.m. after receiving reports of a collision involving a train. Constable Tyler Bell-Morena, a spokesperson for the police, explained that the evidence suggested the boy had gone around the crossing barrier and was struck by the train while he was with another child.
Reports indicate that the two boys were riding motorized bicycles and were not accompanied by an adult. Bell-Morena expressed his condolences, saying, “This is an absolutely horrible situation for the family involved.” He added that his thoughts were also with the train conductor, who may have been affected by the tragic event.
Safety Measures and Investigation
According to Bell-Morena, the crossing’s safety signals, including train arms, flashing lights, and an audible tone, were working at the time of the accident. Despite these safety measures, Bell-Morena reminded the public, especially young people, about the importance of being cautious around railway crossings. He said, “When I was his age, I was out on a dirt bike myself. And you should be able to go out and have fun.” However, he added, “This is a time, unfortunately, to remind our kids that when they're on these bikes, to really mind the crossings, particularly at railway passings.”
The police are investigating the boy’s death, while Metrolinx, the agency responsible for the trains, is looking into the circumstances surrounding the train collision. Following the incident, a large police presence was seen in the area as part of the investigation.
Metrolinx Statement and Rail Safety Reminder
In a statement later that day, Metrolinx expressed its deep sympathies for the boy’s family and loved ones. The provincial transit agency also thanked first responders for their quick and efficient work at the scene.
Metrolinx highlighted the importance of rail safety, calling the incident a sobering reminder of how dangerous trains can be. “Staying aware at rail crossings is essential,” the agency emphasized in its statement.
GO Train Service Disruptions
The incident led to a halt in GO Train service along a section of the Lakeshore West line. Metrolinx confirmed that the train, which struck the boy, was traveling between Long Branch GO and Port Credit GO stations. The train was carrying around 500 to 600 passengers, all of whom were safely transferred to another train.
By Wednesday evening, Metrolinx announced that the tracks had reopened, allowing trains to resume service. However, they warned that delays, modifications, and cancellations could still occur as normal operations were gradually restored.
Investigation and Road Closures
Police had closed roads in the vicinity of the incident to facilitate the investigation. All roads were reopened later that evening once the area was cleared.
