A devastating collision has brought eastbound traffic to a standstill on Highway 401 at Eglinton Avenue East this morning, claiming at least one life and triggering massive delays across Toronto’s already congested highway system.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after 5:30 a.m. following reports of a multi-vehicle collision involving a transport truck and two passenger vehicles. Ontario Provincial Police confirmed one fatality at the scene, while two additional individuals were transported to hospital with injuries described as serious but non-life-threatening.
“We’re asking motorists to completely avoid the area as investigation and cleanup operations are expected to continue through much of the day,” said OPP Sergeant Kerry Schmidt in a statement to CO24 News. “This is a complex scene with significant debris field that our collision reconstruction team needs to process thoroughly.”
The crash has forced the closure of all eastbound lanes between Allen Road and Eglinton Avenue East, creating ripple effects throughout the morning commute. The Ministry of Transportation has implemented emergency detours, directing eastbound traffic to exit at Allen Road and follow alternative routes via Lawrence Avenue and Don Mills Road.
Toronto Police Service is assisting with traffic management on city streets, which have quickly become congested with diverted vehicles. “We’re seeing unprecedented volume on secondary routes this morning,” noted TPS Traffic Services Constable James Morton. “Commuters should plan for at least an additional hour of travel time through affected areas.”
The Canada News traffic helicopter reports backups extending as far west as Highway 427, with slowdowns affecting northbound and southbound routes connecting to the 401 corridor as well.
Weather conditions at the time of the collision included light fog and wet pavement from overnight rainfall, though investigators have not yet determined if these factors contributed to the crash. The identities of those involved have not been released pending notification of next of kin.
This marks the fourth fatal collision on this stretch of Highway 401 this year, raising renewed concerns about safety on North America’s busiest highway. The Toronto section of the 401 handles approximately 500,000 vehicles daily, according to Ministry of Transportation data.
Commuters are strongly advised to monitor CO24 Traffic for real-time updates or consider using public transit alternatives where possible. Officials estimate eastbound lanes may remain closed until late afternoon as the investigation continues.
As our communities again confront the tragic consequences of highway collisions, will this incident finally prompt meaningful discussion about comprehensive safety improvements for this critical transportation corridor?
