Residents of Ottawa witnessed a dramatic and chaotic scene on Wednesday afternoon, describing the aftermath of a serious single-vehicle rollover crash as something straight out of an action film. The incident, which occurred on St. Laurent Boulevard, left bystanders in shock and resulted in the driver fleeing the scene on foot, an act captured on video.
A Scene of Sudden Chaos
According to multiple witnesses who spoke with CTV News, the event unfolded rapidly. A vehicle traveling on the busy Ottawa roadway lost control, leading to a violent rollover. The sound of crushing metal and shattering glass drew immediate attention from people in the vicinity. The crash happened on January 08, 2026, turning an ordinary day into one of unexpected turmoil.
One witness, still visibly shaken, recounted the moments following the impact. "It was like a scene from a movie," they said, emphasizing the surreal and sudden nature of the accident. The vehicle came to rest on its side, debris scattered across the road and creating a significant hazard for other drivers.
Driver Captured Fleeing the Aftermath
Perhaps the most startling detail of the event was the actions of the driver immediately following the crash. Instead of remaining at the scene to speak with emergency responders or assess potential injuries, the individual was seen exiting the overturned vehicle and running away.
This act of fleeing was captured on video, providing Ottawa police with crucial evidence in their investigation. The footage shows the driver scrambling from the wreckage and hastily departing the area on foot, leaving the damaged vehicle behind. Police are now actively seeking this individual to determine the cause of the crash and any potential charges, such as failing to remain at the scene of an accident.
Investigation and Community Impact
Emergency services, including Ottawa paramedics and fire crews, responded promptly to the scene on St. Laurent Boulevard. Their first priority was to ensure no other individuals were trapped in the vehicle and to secure the area for public safety. Initial reports indicate the driver was the sole occupant.
The crash caused significant traffic disruptions during the afternoon hours, with lanes closed for cleanup and investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on urban roadways and the critical importance of remaining at the scene of a collision. CTV's Katie Griffin gathered accounts from those who saw the event firsthand, painting a picture of a brief but intense moment of public danger that has left a mark on the local community.
As of the evening of January 8, Ottawa police continue their investigation into the circumstances that led to the rollover and the subsequent flight of the driver. Authorities are asking any other witnesses or individuals with additional video footage to come forward to assist with the case.
