A teenage driver was rushed to hospital via air ambulance following a serious collision between a pick-up truck and a construction vehicle in Severn Township, Ontario Provincial Police reported.
Emergency Response and Road Closure
The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, prompting a significant emergency response. The collision forced the closure of Upper Big Chute Road as police launched a detailed investigation into the crash's circumstances.
OPP officers secured the scene to allow for reconstruction and evidence collection. The exact time of the collision and the specific type of construction vehicle involved have not yet been released by authorities.
Victim Airlifted to Trauma Centre
The most critical detail confirmed by police is that the teenage occupant of the pick-up truck sustained serious injuries. Due to the severity of those injuries, medical personnel made the decision to transport the victim by air ambulance (helicopter) to a regional trauma centre for urgent care.
The condition of the teen and the identity of the construction vehicle driver have not been disclosed. OPP investigators are working to notify next of kin and piece together the events leading up to the impact.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The OPP's Technical Traffic Collision Investigation (TTCI) unit is likely involved in the probe, which is standard procedure for serious crashes. Investigators will be examining factors such as road conditions, vehicle speeds, and visibility at the time of the incident.
Local residents and commuters faced significant disruptions as Upper Big Chute Road remained closed for several hours. Police have not provided an estimated time for the road to reopen, advising drivers to seek alternate routes until the investigation concludes and the scene is cleared.
This collision serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on rural and construction-adjacent roadways, especially during the winter months. The OPP often emphasizes the importance of slowing down in work zones and being prepared for unexpected hazards.
