Whitby, Ontario – A tragic police pursuit stemming from a liquor store robbery led to a devastating pileup on Highway 401, resulting in the deaths of an infant, their grandparents, and the suspect involved. The incident began when Durham police responded to a robbery at an LCBO location near Green Road and Highway 2, after an off-duty officer witnessed the crime and alerted authorities.
Following the robbery, the suspect attempted to flee, prompting a police pursuit through the streets of Durham Region. The pursuit escalated when the suspect entered the eastbound lanes of Highway 401 while driving in the wrong direction, leading to a multi-vehicle collision involving six vehicles. Tragically, the collision claimed the lives of the suspect, the infant, and their grandparents.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has launched an investigation into the police response during the pursuit, focusing on the decision to pursue the suspect onto the busy highway. The investigation will analyze the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and evaluate the actions taken by the officers involved.
Witnesses at the scene described chaotic moments as police attempted to apprehend the suspect on the highway, with dashcam footage capturing the frantic pursuit. The SIU will thoroughly examine the pursuit to determine its appropriateness and assess any potential impacts on public safety.
Premier Doug Ford expressed his condolences to the victims’ family, labeling the incident as a “tragedy” and emphasizing the need for improved police equipment to prevent similar pursuits in the future. The collision resulted in a closure of a section of Highway 401 in Whitby, causing disruptions to traffic flow throughout the night and into the morning rush.
As the investigation continues, the SIU is urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward and assist in shedding light on the events leading up to the fatal collision. The community remains in shock over the heartbreaking outcome of what began as a routine robbery call and escalated into a devastating tragedy on the busy highway.