A tow truck driver lost their life on Wednesday after being struck by a vehicle while working on Highway 401 near Drumbo, Ontario. The tragic incident occurred in the morning hours of December 3, 2025, and resulted in major traffic disruptions along one of Canada's busiest transportation corridors.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The collision happened on the westbound lanes of the 401 in the Drumbo area. Emergency services, including Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and paramedics, responded to the scene. Despite life-saving efforts, the tow truck operator was pronounced dead. The identity of the driver has not been released, pending notification of next of kin.
The OPP's investigation into the exact circumstances is ongoing. Police are working to determine the sequence of events that led to the worker being struck. Traffic in the area was severely impacted for several hours, with long lineups forming as police closed lanes for the investigation and cleanup.
Ongoing Investigation and Road Safety
Authorities have not released details about potential charges or the vehicle involved in the collision. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by first responders and service personnel working on highways.
Ontario's "Move Over" law requires drivers to slow down and, if safe to do so, move over a lane when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights. Failure to comply can result in significant fines and demerit points. Police often reiterate this message following tragic events like the one near Drumbo.
Community and Industry Impact
The death is a profound loss for the local towing community and the driver's family. Tow truck operators perform a critical and dangerous service, often in high-speed, high-risk environments. This fatality underscores the persistent risks associated with their essential work.
As the investigation continues, police are likely appealing to the public for any witnesses or dashcam footage that could aid in piecing together the events of Wednesday morning. The stretch of Highway 401 where the incident occurred is a major thoroughfare connecting southwestern Ontario to the Greater Toronto Area.