LONDON, ON – July 4, 2025 — Tragedy struck Friday afternoon on Highway 402 as an 87-year-old Sarnia resident was pronounced dead in an accident following a multi-vehicle collision near Colonel Talbot Road in south London, Ontario.
The devastating crash occurred just before 12:30 p.m., involving an SUV, a minivan, and a transport truck — mere metres from the Ontario Provincial Police West Region Headquarters. According to OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk, an SUV travelling westbound veered across the median into oncoming eastbound traffic, colliding first with a minivan and then with a transport truck before coming to rest in a ditch.
The victim, an elderly passenger in the minivan, was rushed to hospital with critical injuries but was later pronounced deceased. Three other occupants of the van were also taken to hospital with varying degrees of injuries. Their current conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
“This is a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy,” said Sgt. Sanchuk during an on-site update. “The loss of life, especially involving someone’s loved one and grandparent, reminds us just how dangerous our highways can become in a matter of seconds.”
The victim’s identity has not yet been released by authorities, pending next-of-kin notification. However, early reports confirm they were a long-time Sarnia resident known for their quiet resilience and devotion to family. Loved ones are said to be in mourning as the community grapples with this unexpected loss.
The eastbound lanes of Highway 402 between Colonel Talbot Road and Wonderland Road were closed shortly after the crash and are expected to remain shut well into the night. OPP traffic investigators with the West Region Traffic Incident Management Enforcement Team are conducting a full reconstruction of the scene to determine the exact sequence of events.
This fatal crash marks the second major closure on Highway 402 this week. A separate chemical spill had already caused extensive delays on the highway earlier on Wednesday and Thursday, adding to a week marred by road disruption and now, heartbreak.
Motorists were urged to avoid the area and plan alternate routes during the extended closure. Emergency responders and investigators worked through the afternoon and into the evening, piecing together the cause of this fatal sequence.
A Community in Mourning
The passing of the 87-year-old resident has sent shockwaves through their local community. Neighbours described the individual as “kind-hearted,” “independent,” and “still very active” despite their age. They were well-known in local circles and deeply cherished by family and friends.
As this tragedy unfolds, local leaders are echoing calls for safer driving habits and increased awareness, especially along high-speed corridors like Highway 402. OPP officials have stressed that even a moment of inattention or recklessness can have life-altering consequences for multiple families.
Plans for a formal memorial or service are expected in the coming days. In the meantime, the community is being asked to respect the privacy of the family as they process their grief.
