Two Children Hospitalized After Being Struck by Vehicle in Montreal West
Montreal police reported that two children were transported to a hospital with minor injuries following a collision with a car early Monday morning in Montreal West. The incident occurred at 7:50 a.m. at the intersection of Westminster Avenue and Ainslie Road, an area known for heavy traffic and proximity to a level train crossing.
Details of the Collision
According to police spokesperson Anne-Sophie Simard, the driver involved was a 36-year-old woman traveling south on Westminster Avenue. She had come to a complete stop as required before proceeding, when the two children—ages 12 and 13—were struck at low speed. The contact was described as minimal, but both children were evaluated at the scene by Urgences-santé paramedics and taken to a hospital as a precautionary measure. No other injuries were reported, and police are treating the incident as an accident.
School Response and Safety Concerns
Royal West Academy confirmed in a letter to parents that both children are students at the high school. The administration emphasized that while the students were not seriously injured, the event highlights the urgent need for increased vigilance to ensure safe travel to and from school. The letter stated, "Luckily, the students were not seriously injured, but the incident underscored the fact that we need to act with increased vigilance to ensure that all of our students can travel to school safely."
The intersection at Westminster Avenue and Ainslie Road is particularly hazardous, with over 400 Royal West students estimated to cross it daily during rush hour. The danger is compounded by its location less than 200 meters from a level train crossing, creating a complex traffic environment with cars, trains, and pedestrians.
Community Advocacy for Safety Measures
This incident has reignited concerns among parents and community members who have been campaigning for improved safety measures. Last fall, parents launched a petition calling for the installation of crossing guards at dangerous intersections near Quebec high schools, including this one. The petition was initiated after a student was struck on a crosswalk in October 2024 and has since garnered more than 2,600 signatures. It is sponsored by Liberal MNA Désirée McGraw, whose riding includes Montreal West.
The school administration has pledged to continue working with parents leading the petition and campaign, stating, "We want our community to know that we will continue working with the parents who have been spearheading a petition and campaign to help ensure that this intersection is safe."
Municipal Challenges and Previous Efforts
The Town of Montreal West issued a statement on its Facebook page reminding all road users to remain vigilant. However, efforts to improve safety have faced obstacles. Last October, plans to reconfigure traffic at the nearby train crossing stalled when no companies bid on the pilot project during the summer, delaying potential upgrades.
This collision underscores ongoing debates about pedestrian safety in school zones and the need for proactive measures to prevent future incidents. As community advocacy grows, the call for crossing guards and other safety interventions remains a pressing issue for local authorities and residents alike.
