72 FATAL COLLISIONS, 81 PEOPLE DECEASED IN 2024

OPP East Region Calls on Drivers to Make a Change in 2025

Smiths Falls – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in eastern Ontario are calling on all drivers to be part of the change that makes our roads and highways safer.

There were 72 fatal collisions in East Region OPP jurisdiction in 2024, resulting in the deaths of 81 people.

Major factors in last year’s fatal crashes:

• Speed: 26
• Inattentive/distracted: 16
• Alcohol/drugs: 12
• No seatbelt: 10

“This is why we are out on the highways looking for those who deliberately choose to drive at dangerously high speeds. When we say, ‘slow down’, it’s about preventing tragedies. It’s about ensuring moms, dads, sons, daughters, friends and loved ones all get safely to their destinations.” – Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Commander

So far in 2025, East Region OPP officers have investigated 11 fatal collisions, in which 13 people have lost their lives. In each case, officers have had to knock on a door and tell family members that a loved one has been killed.

We urge everyone who gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, to think about what it would mean if you NEVER came home again. Slow down, never drive impaired, keep your eyes on the road ahead – not your phone, and always fasten your seatbelt. If you ride a motorcycle, the same message applies, but swap helmet for seatbelt.

OPP officers can be anywhere, but we can’t be everywhere. If you see someone driving dangerously and feel that lives are at risk, call 9-1-1.