Our community is reeling after a tragic multi-vehicle collision in Kawartha Lakes claimed three lives and left others injured Saturday evening.
Ontario Provincial Police responded to the intersection of Highway 7 and New Heights Road at 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, following reports of a serious crash involving a passenger vehicle and four motorcycles.
The driver of the passenger vehicle, an 18-year-old man from Peterborough, was pronounced dead at the scene. The young man's death marks a heartbreaking loss for his family and our broader community.
Among the motorcyclists, a 72-year-old man from Dunchurch was also pronounced dead at the scene. A 65-year-old man from Barrie was airlifted to a Toronto-area hospital with serious injuries, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Two other motorcyclists survived the collision. A 30-year-old man from Sudbury was initially treated at a local hospital before being transferred to a Toronto-area facility for further care. A 36-year-old man, also from Sudbury, was treated and released at the scene.
The intersection of Highway 7 and New Heights Road is a well-traveled route through Kawartha Lakes, making this collision particularly impactful for residents and travelers who regularly use this corridor.
Provincial police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The investigation will examine factors including road conditions, visibility, and the sequence of events that led to this devastating outcome.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly as we head into the summer months when motorcycle traffic increases. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and we wish a full recovery to those still receiving medical care.
