A serious head-on collision on Prince of Wales Drive in Ottawa on Sunday afternoon has left three people injured, with one victim in critical condition.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operation
The crash occurred on January 11, 2026, prompting a significant emergency response. Ottawa Fire Services crews arrived at the scene to find two drivers trapped inside their severely damaged vehicles. Firefighters used specialized hydraulic rescue tools, commonly known as the "jaws of life," to extricate the individuals from the wreckage.
Paramedics from Ottawa Paramedic Service treated all three patients at the location. One person was transported to a local trauma centre in critical condition. The two other individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were also taken to hospital for further treatment.
Investigation and Road Closure
The Ottawa Police Service's Collision Investigation Unit has taken over the investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. The collision resulted in a substantial closure of Prince of Wales Drive, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area for several hours while emergency crews worked and evidence was collected.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved or speculated on potential factors leading to the head-on impact. They are appealing to any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the incident or the moments leading up to it to contact investigators.
This crash serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of collisions on Ottawa's roadways. It underscores the importance of road safety, particularly on multi-lane roads like Prince of Wales Drive, which connects several southern Ottawa communities to the downtown core.
