A serious crash on Highway 401 in Mississauga caused major traffic disruptions on Wednesday morning, leaving five people injured and prompting the closure of portions of both Highways 401 and 403 as emergency crews responded to the scene. Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The crash occurred on the eastbound express lanes of Highway 401 near Mississauga Road during the morning commute. While police have not yet disclosed how many vehicles were involved or what led to the collision, the incident resulted in a significant emergency response involving OPP officers, Peel Regional Paramedic Services, firefighters, and air ambulance personnel.
According to Peel paramedics, five people were injured in the crash. Three of the victims sustained serious injuries and were airlifted by ORNGE air ambulance to regional trauma centres for specialized treatment. The conditions of the remaining injured individuals have not been publicly released. Authorities have also not identified any of the victims as they continue notifying family members.
The collision forced the closure of the eastbound Highway 401 express lanes from east of Mississauga Road to east of Dixie Road. In addition, the eastbound Highway 403 express lanes beyond Eglinton Avenue leading to Highway 401 were also shut down to allow investigators to examine the crash scene and emergency crews to safely assist those involved. Motorists were urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes as lengthy traffic delays developed throughout the morning.
Investigators remain at the scene collecting evidence and working to determine the cause of the collision. At this stage, police have not announced whether speed, impairment, weather, mechanical failure, or any other contributing factors played a role. Officials are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the collision to contact the OPP to assist with the ongoing investigation.
The crash serves as another reminder of the importance of exercising caution on one of Canada’s busiest highways, particularly during peak travel periods when traffic conditions can change rapidly. Authorities are expected to release additional information as the investigation progresses and more details become available.
