Uxbridge woman charged firefighters in a tragic collision involving three emergency responders last November. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, November 16, 2025, resulted in serious injuries to three firefighters and the driver of a transport truck, highlighting the inherent dangers faced by emergency crews working at accident scenes.
At approximately 7:40 p.m., Uxbridge Fire and Durham Police were responding to a collision on Wagg Road near Old Highway 47, involving a transport truck and a pick-up truck. While emergency crews were assisting at the scene, a Hyundai SUV suddenly lost control, crashing into the emergency responders and the transport truck driver. The vehicle then continued through a fence before colliding with a nearby tree.
The impact was devastating. Three firefighters were seriously injured, with one firefighter, aged 42, airlifted to a Toronto trauma centre in critical condition. Another firefighter, a 37-year-old Fire Captain, was also airlifted to the trauma centre. The third firefighter, a 54-year-old Fire Captain, was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. The transport truck driver also suffered minor injuries and was hospitalized.
Authorities later determined that hazardous road conditions, including snow and ice, were to blame for the driver’s loss of control. However, Mike MacDonald, Uxbridge Fire Chief, emphasized the importance of caution when driving near emergency scenes, stating, “Every time our firefighters respond to a collision or emergency on the road, they face real and serious risks. Even with lights, sirens, and safety protocols, the dangers are very real. We are fortunate that our firefighters were not more seriously injured in this incident.”
Four months after the collision, the Collision Investigation Unit concluded their investigation and charged the driver of the Hyundai SUV. A 42-year-old woman from Courtice was charged with three counts of careless driving causing bodily harm. She was issued a court summons and is required to attend Provincial Offences Court.
Following the incident, Uxbridge Mayor Dave Barton expressed his relief that a tragedy had been avoided, saying, “Uxbridge came far too close to a tragedy.” The Mayor also commended the efforts of local emergency responders, acknowledging the dangers they face in the line of duty.
This case underscores the dangers that emergency responders face, especially when they are working in hazardous conditions. It also serves as a reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant when driving near accident scenes and to exercise caution, especially in inclement weather.
The Collision Investigation Unit is still looking for more information about the incident. Anyone with knowledge of the events surrounding the collision is asked to contact D/Cst. Hoevenaars of the Collision Investigation Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5255. Tipsters may also contact Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks that emergency personnel face every day. It is critical that the public remain aware of the potential dangers and follow all traffic laws to ensure the safety of everyone, particularly those who put their lives on the line to protect and serve.
