A constable-in-training with the Durham Regional Police Service has died after a motor vehicle collision near the Ontario Police College in southwestern Ontario.
Another constable-in-training was seriously injured in the same crash and remains in hospital fighting for their life.
Crash Happened While Officers Were Travelling to Training
Durham Regional Police Chief Peter Moreira said in a statement on social media that the two constables-in-training were on their way to the Ontario Police College in Malahide Township, near Aylmer, Ontario, when the collision occurred.
They were travelling to the facility for training at the time of the crash.
The collision happened a few kilometres west of the college.
Transport Truck and Sedan Involved
According to police, the crash involved a transport truck and a sedan.
The collision occurred at the intersection of Imperial Road, also known as Highway 73, and College Line at about 11:20 a.m.
OPP Const. Jeff Beaumaster said the driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured.
Chief Calls Crash an Unimaginable Tragedy
Chief Moreira said the police service is focused on supporting the families of the constables-in-training, as well as their classmates, instructors, friends and members of the Durham Regional Police Service who are grieving.
He said the service will continue making sure those affected receive the care and support they need.
Moreira also asked the public to respect the privacy of the families and everyone impacted as they deal with what he described as an unimaginable tragedy.
OPP Investigating the Collision
The Ontario Provincial Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Moreira said Durham Regional Police will not release further details while the investigation continues and family notifications are still taking place.
Roads in the immediate area remained closed as police carried out their investigation.
Police Board Expresses Condolences
The Durham Regional Police Service Board issued a statement offering its sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the DRPS member who died.
The board said the officer suffered fatal injuries while travelling to the Ontario Police College in Aylmer.
It also expressed support for the family of the second constable-in-training, who was seriously injured and remains in hospital.
DRPS Community Mourns Devastating Loss
The board said the entire DRPS family is mourning the devastating loss with deep sorrow.
It added that Chief Moreira, his leadership team, the Durham Regional Police Association and all DRPS members will come together to support one another with compassion, love and respect.
The board also thanked police personnel for their ongoing resilience and service.
The death of a Durham Regional Police constable-in-training in a crash near the Ontario Police College has left the DRPS community in mourning.
The collision, involving a sedan and a transport truck, happened at Imperial Road and College Line around 11:20 a.m. while two constables-in-training were travelling to training.
One died, while the other remains in hospital with serious injuries. The Ontario Provincial Police are investigating the crash, and Durham police officials have asked the public to respect the privacy of the families and all those affected.
