The logo of Toronto Police Service. Police report that three brothers and sisters died after a crash caused by a 19-year-old driver who is suspected of being impaired. The Canadian Press
Early Sunday morning, a heartbreaking crash in west Toronto took the lives of three children and left three others in hospital. The accident happened around 12:30 a.m. on Renforth Drive, near the eastbound Highway 401 off-ramp.
What Happened?
Toronto police say 19-year-old Ethan Lehouillier from Georgetown was driving a 2015 Dodge Caravan at a high speed. While exiting the highway at Renforth Drive, he lost control of his vehicle. He then crossed a raised median and hit a car stopped at a red light.
The struck vehicle was a 2022 Chrysler Pacifica minivan. Inside the minivan were a mother, her four children, and a man who was a friend of the family.
The Victims
Tragically, three children died because of the crash. A 13-year-old and a 15-year-old were pronounced dead at the scene. A six-year-old was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died there.
A fourth child, aged 10, and two adults in the minivan — a 35-year-old woman and a 40-year-old man — were hurt but have non-life-threatening injuries. All three are in stable condition at the hospital.
Police Response and Charges
Ethan Lehouillier was arrested at the scene. Police say he was driving while impaired and face several charges. These include three counts each of impaired driving causing death and bodily harm, and three counts each of dangerous driving causing death and bodily harm.
Acting Inspector Baheer Sarbanandan spoke at a news conference. He said, “We educate the public of the dangers of drinking and driving and this is a result: A family is torn apart.”
Impact on the Community
This crash is a sharp reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. Families and friends are mourning a terrible loss. Police continue their investigation while the community offers support to the survivors.
