In a tragic incident, a toddler lost his life and several other children were injured when an SUV crashed into a daycare center in Richmond Hill, Ontario. The horrific accident occurred at First Roots Early Education Academy, causing devastation among the children and staff present at the facility.
The 1 1/2-year-old boy who tragically passed away was among those affected by the crash, with six other children sustaining injuries ranging from minor to critical. Three staff members also suffered injuries during the incident that shook the community.
Following this heartbreaking event, the Ontario government has put forward new safety measures to enhance security at child-care facilities. Education Minister Paul Calandra announced that steps would be taken to ensure the safe design and operation of such establishments, with a focus on preventing similar accidents in the future.
Calandra highlighted the importance of implementing regulations that would disallow parking in close proximity to entryways, windows, or exterior walls of classrooms and playgrounds within child-care facilities. Exceptions would be made for accessible spaces and home-based child-care services, taking into account their unique setups.
Moreover, efforts are underway to collaborate with various stakeholders to identify and address vulnerabilities in existing safety protocols. The government is committed to making any necessary changes to regulations or legislation to facilitate the installation of protective barriers, such as bollards and planters, to safeguard children and staff members in these settings.
In the aftermath of the crash, a 70-year-old man has been charged with dangerous driving, although authorities have clarified that there is no suspicion of deliberate intent. The individual has been released on bail with stringent conditions to ensure public safety.