A driver has been charged after a collision with an ION light rail train in Waterloo, according to regional police. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, prompting a temporary shutdown of LRT service along the affected route.
Details of the Incident
Emergency crews responded to the scene near the intersection of King Street and University Avenue around 2:30 p.m. The collision involved a passenger vehicle and an ION train traveling southbound. No injuries were reported among the train passengers or the driver, police confirmed.
The driver of the vehicle, a 34-year-old from Kitchener, faces charges under the Highway Traffic Act, including failing to yield to a transit vehicle. The name of the accused has not been released.
Service Disruptions
ION LRT service was suspended between the Waterloo Public Square and the University of Waterloo stations for approximately two hours while investigators examined the scene and cleared debris. Replacement buses were deployed to transport affected passengers. Service resumed fully by 4:45 p.m.
Regional Transit Services officials reminded the public to exercise caution at railway crossings and obey all traffic signals. ION trains operate on a dedicated right-of-way but intersect with road traffic at several crossings in the region.
Ongoing Investigation
Waterloo Regional Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision. Anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
This incident marks the latest in a series of collisions involving LRT vehicles in the region. In 2024, there were 12 reported collisions between ION trains and vehicles, a slight decrease from 15 in 2023. Transit officials have implemented additional safety measures, including enhanced signage and public awareness campaigns, to reduce such incidents.
Drivers are urged to remain vigilant and avoid distractions when approaching LRT crossings. The Region of Waterloo has invested in infrastructure improvements to improve safety at high-risk intersections.
