A major northern Ontario highway has reopened after a serious collision prompted a lengthy police investigation and closure. Highway 11 in North Bay was shut down on Sunday, December 21, 2025, following a crash involving a snowplow and a pedestrian.
Details of the Serious Collision
The incident, which occurred in the morning hours, led to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) closing a section of the highway to conduct a thorough investigation. According to authorities, the crash resulted in life-altering injuries for the pedestrian involved. Emergency services responded to the scene to provide critical care before transporting the individual for further medical treatment.
The OPP has not released further specifics regarding the circumstances leading up to the collision or the current condition of the injured pedestrian. The investigation focused on documenting the scene and gathering evidence to determine the cause of the accident.
Traffic Impact and Reopening
The closure of Highway 11 caused significant disruption for motorists travelling through the North Bay area. The vital transportation corridor was blocked for an extended period while emergency crews and police worked at the site. Drivers were forced to seek alternate routes, causing delays, especially given the winter travel conditions typical for the region at this time of year.
By late morning, the OPP confirmed that their on-scene investigation was complete. Crews cleared the highway, and all lanes were reopened to traffic, restoring the flow of vehicles. Police have reminded the public to exercise extreme caution when travelling near highway maintenance vehicles, especially during winter weather operations.
Ongoing Investigation and Winter Safety Reminder
While the roadway has reopened, the OPP investigation into the precise cause of the crash is likely ongoing. Such serious incidents often involve reconstruction experts and a detailed analysis of all factors. The police have not indicated whether any charges will be laid.
This serious accident serves as a stark reminder of the hazards present on winter roads. The OPP and transportation officials consistently urge pedestrians to avoid walking on or near high-speed highways. They also advise drivers to maintain a safe distance from snowplows, which have large blind spots and frequently make sudden stops and turns while clearing roads.
The community of North Bay is left hoping for the recovery of the injured individual as authorities continue to look into the events of Sunday morning.
