Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his staff emerged unscathed following a collision involving an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) vehicle transporting him on Wednesday afternoon.
The OPP has charged an 18-year-old Oshawa man with dangerous driving in connection with the two-vehicle collision, which occurred on the westbound lanes of Highway 401 near Brock Road in Pickering. The incident took place around 12:30 p.m. and involved a vehicle from the OPP Protective Services Section.
According to a statement from Ford’s office, neither the Premier, his staff, nor the accompanying OPP officers sustained injuries. The driver of the other vehicle and a passenger suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.
Ford Describes Incident
Speaking to reporters later in the day, Premier Ford described the moment his vehicle was sideswiped.
“We were just driving straight, and the next thing you know, we got hammered, just hammered,” he said. Displaying his characteristic humor, Ford added, “I’m OK—this head is like limestone. It’s hard as a rock.”
Ford emphasized that the OPP vehicle he was in was driving within its lane and at the speed limit. He also expressed concern for the occupants of the other vehicle, saying, “I just pray they’re OK.”
Opposition Leaders Respond
Ontario Liberal Party Leader Bonnie Crombie expressed relief that the incident did not result in serious injuries.
“After hearing of the accident involving the Premier, staff, OPP officers, and civilians, I am relieved that everyone is safe and has been released from the hospital,” Crombie said in a statement. She also extended her gratitude to Ontario’s first responders for their swift assistance.
“This must have been a frightening experience for everyone involved, and what matters most is that everyone can return home to their families tonight,” she added.
OPP Investigation Continues
The OPP has confirmed that their highway safety division is investigating the collision. They are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashboard camera footage to come forward by contacting the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
The accused is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Oshawa on February 20.