A tragic collision between two vehicles has resulted in a fatality and the closure of a major highway on Manitoulin Island in Northern Ontario.
Highway Shut Down Following Serious Collision
The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, leading Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to close Highway 540. The closure was announced to the public in the evening, with initial reports published around 7:19 PM EST and later updated by 9:00 PM EST. Details regarding the exact location and time of the crash were not immediately released by authorities.
OPP Leading the Investigation
Emergency crews and OPP officers responded to the scene of the two-vehicle crash. Police have confirmed that the collision was fatal, though the number of individuals involved and their conditions have not been disclosed. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and the highway is expected to remain closed for a significant period while police reconstruct the scene and clear the vehicles.
Impact on Manitoulin Island Community
The closure of Highway 540, a key transportation route on the island, disrupts local travel and commerce. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes until further notice from the OPP. This fatal crash marks a somber event for the close-knit communities of Manitoulin Island, which are more accustomed to the dangers of winter driving conditions than high-speed fatal collisions.
The OPP is expected to release more information, including the identities of those involved, once next of kin have been notified. The incident serves as a stark reminder for all drivers to exercise caution, especially on rural highways during the winter months.
