A tragic incident unfolded Wednesday afternoon in Richmond Hill when an SUV crashed into a daycare, killing a toddler and seriously injuring another child.
York Regional Police say the crash occurred around 3 p.m. at a daycare near Yonge Street and Nottingham Drive. Initial reports suggest the SUV was in the parking lot before unexpectedly driving through the front window of the building, continuing through multiple rooms.
Ten people — seven children between the ages of one-and-a-half and three, along with three staff members — were struck by the vehicle. All were transported to hospital. A one-and-a-half-year-old boy died shortly after arrival, while another child remains in serious condition. The remaining victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
A man in his 70s, who was driving the SUV, was arrested at the scene. No charges have been laid yet, and police say the crash does not appear to be intentional. The investigation is ongoing.
All 96 children present at the daycare at the time were accounted for, and parents were quickly notified. Police arranged reunification at a nearby location.
Officials, including Richmond Hill Mayor David West and York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween, expressed their condolences and support. Mayor West called the incident an “unimaginable tragedy” and emphasized the community’s compassion and unity in the face of grief. Chief MacSween reaffirmed the police service’s commitment to supporting the victims, families, and responders affected by the devastating event.
Victim services are being made available to anyone impacted.