Toronto, ON — A devastating bus collision near Toronto’s Pearson International Airport has claimed the life of a young participant from the Gretzky Hockey School, according to a report confirmed by CNN early Tuesday morning. The accident occurred on the Macdonald-Cartier Freeway (Highway 401) late Monday night, involving a chartered bus carrying 24 campers and staff members returning from a team bonding event.
Details of the Incident
Authorities say the collision took place at approximately 10:42 PM, near the Renforth Drive exit, when the bus collided with a transport truck that had come to an unexpected stop in the right lane. Investigators are still piecing together the exact sequence of events, but weather and low visibility are believed to have played a role.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) confirmed that one fatality — a 13-year-old camper — was declared at the scene. Their name has not yet been released, pending family notification. Several others sustained injuries, three of them critical, and were rushed to Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and Trillium Health Partners Mississauga.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for everyone involved,” said OPP spokesperson Sgt. Lisa Crawford. “Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and the entire Gretzky Hockey School community.”
Response from the Gretzky Hockey School
The Gretzky Hockey School, founded by hockey legend Wayne Gretzky and operated each summer in various cities including Toronto, offers intensive skill development for young athletes aged 7–17. The school released a statement early Tuesday morning:
“We are devastated by the tragic accident that occurred last night involving members of our Toronto hockey camp. One of our young participants has sadly passed away, and several others remain hospitalized. Our hearts are with the families. We are working closely with authorities and counselors are on-site to support those affected.”
Wayne Gretzky himself responded with a brief message on social media:
“My heart breaks for the family who lost their child last night. The hockey world is small — we mourn as one. I’m sending strength and love to every camper, coach, and family member touched by this tragedy.”
Community Reaction and Outpouring of Support
Within hours of the news breaking, messages of support flooded in from across the hockey world. NHL teams, players, and fans posted condolences and pledged support for the families affected.
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Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares tweeted: “Unimaginable loss. Our thoughts are with everyone at Gretzky Hockey School and the families involved.”
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The Hockey Canada organization issued a statement offering grief resources and support.
Locals in the Etobicoke area began leaving flowers, hockey sticks, and signed pucks outside the gates of the school’s temporary facility at Ford Performance Centre in South Etobicoke.
Investigation Underway
Officials from the Ministry of Transportation, OPP collision investigators, and representatives from the charter bus company are now examining the vehicle, road conditions, and other factors to determine responsibility. The driver of the transport truck was reportedly unharmed and is cooperating fully.
No charges have been filed at this time.
“It’s too early to say if this was avoidable,” said traffic safety expert Dr. Adrian Simms. “But incidents like this highlight how vulnerable even the most prepared teams and drivers are on our highways.”
Survivor Condition and Support Efforts
As of this morning, no official survivors have been released from the hospital, although several are in stable condition. Crisis counselors have been dispatched to assist the other campers and families, many of whom remain in Toronto while waiting for more information.
A GoFundMe page has been launched by parents of the school to support medical expenses, grief counseling, and travel accommodations for families. In less than 12 hours, the campaign has raised over $82,000.
A Sobering Reminder
This incident comes just months after renewed calls for increased safety protocols for youth travel involving sports teams, especially during late-night or long-distance bus trips. Several provincial lawmakers expressed intent to review current transport standards in the wake of this tragedy.
“We’ve lost a bright young soul who loved this game,” said Ontario Premier Daniella MacIntyre during an early morning press briefing. “It is our duty to ensure this never happens again.”
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