In a tragic incident early Saturday morning, a vehicle was submerged in Lake Ontario following a two–vehicle collision at Keating Channel in downtown Toronto, resulting in the death of one person. The collision occurred around 8:45 a.m. near the intersection of Lakeshore Boulevard and Cherry Street.
Toronto Police reported that following the collision, one of the vehicles lost control and entered the frigid waters of Lake Ontario, which were covered with three inches of ice. The other driver involved in the accident was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
Emergency crews, including fire services, promptly launched a rescue operation in an effort to save the submerged vehicle’s occupant. However, the effort soon turned into a recovery mission. By midday, the vehicle was retrieved from the icy waters, and approximately 50 minutes later, the body of the occupant was recovered.
COLLISION:
Lake Shore/Cherry St
8:43 a.m.
– Reports a vehicle exited the roadway and went into the Keating Channel
– Police are on scene with @Toronto_Fire
– Vehicle broke thru ice and is submerged
– Lake Shore/Cherry is closed for emergency vehicles @TTCnotices#GO146970
^lb— Toronto Police Operations (@TPSOperations) January 20, 2024
Paramedics performed lifesaving measures on the recovered individual before they were taken to the hospital. The condition of the individual at the time of hospitalization was not immediately known.
This incident has prompted an investigation, with officials urging the public to avoid the area to facilitate emergency services. Lake Shore Boulevard and Cherry Street have been closed to all but emergency vehicles.
The Toronto Police Operations Twitter account provided updates on the situation, emphasizing the severity of the incident and the ongoing efforts of the emergency services.
This unfortunate event highlights the dangers that can arise in areas where vehicles operate near bodies of water, particularly during winter conditions. The Toronto community has been shaken by the incident, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.
