A dramatic bus crash carrying students from the Kitchener-Waterloo region has triggered a complete shutdown of Highway 401 westbound near London, Ontario, creating massive traffic disruptions and mobilizing emergency services across the area.
The serious collision occurred Thursday afternoon, involving a bus transporting students and at least one other vehicle. Early reports indicate multiple injuries, though the exact number and severity remain under investigation by Ontario Provincial Police.
Emergency crews from multiple jurisdictions rushed to the scene between Colonel Talbot Road and Middlesex County Road 74. The massive response included paramedics, fire services, and police units working to extricate victims and secure the crash site.
All westbound lanes of Canada's busiest highway remain completely closed as investigation and cleanup operations continue. Traffic is being diverted at Colonel Talbot Road, with motorists advised to avoid the area entirely and seek alternate routes.
The involvement of students from Waterloo Region has heightened concerns about the crash's impact. Local school boards and authorities are working to notify families and provide support to those affected by the incident.
OPP officials have established a command post near the crash site as they work to determine the cause of the collision. The investigation is expected to take several hours, meaning the highway closure will likely extend through the evening commute.
This represents one of the most significant highway closures in southwestern Ontario in recent months, disrupting one of the province's critical transportation corridors. Transportation officials are warning of extensive delays throughout the region.
