A second serious pedestrian collision in Durham Region this week has raised safety concerns after a 16-year-old girl was struck by a vehicle in Ajax, according to Durham Regional Police. The incident, now being investigated, marks the latest in what has become a troubling pattern of pedestrian-related accidents across the region.
Police say the collision occurred on Thursday, April 23, around 2:25 p.m., at the intersection of Harwood Avenue North and Rossland Road East in Ajax. A Mini Cooper travelling southbound on Harwood Avenue struck the teenage pedestrian while she was in the roadway. The incident is being widely referred to as the second pedestrian seriously hurt this week in Ajax, following another major crash earlier in the week.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene, and the injured teen was transported to a Toronto-area trauma centre with significant injuries. Authorities have not released further details about her condition. The 48-year-old male driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.
The collision comes just days after a separate incident on April 21 in Pickering, where a female pedestrian was struck by an SUV and left fighting for her life. Together, these two incidents highlight growing concerns about pedestrian safety across Durham Region, particularly at busy intersections.
The second pedestrian seriously hurt this week in Ajax prompted a full response from the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Collision Investigation Unit, which attended the scene to gather evidence and determine the cause of the crash. The roadway was closed for several hours during the investigation but has since reopened.
Police have not yet indicated whether charges will be laid, as the investigation remains ongoing. Officers are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information, including dashcam or surveillance footage, to come forward.
Road safety continues to be a major concern for both residents and authorities, especially as traffic volumes increase. Incidents like the second pedestrian seriously hurt this week in Ajax serve as a reminder of the importance of driver awareness, pedestrian caution, and adherence to traffic laws.
Authorities are asking the public to remain vigilant, particularly in high-traffic areas and intersections, to help prevent further accidents. As the investigation continues, updates may provide more clarity on what led to the collision and whether additional safety measures may be needed in the area.
