Woman Dies After Car Plunges Into Icy Waters at Toronto’s Ashbridges Bay
A tragic accident at Toronto’s Ashbridges Bay has left one woman dead and several others injured. The incident occurred late Sunday evening when a vehicle plunged into the icy waters of Lake Ontario.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
At approximately 9:30 p.m. on January 19, emergency responders arrived at Ashbridges Bay Park Road. The vehicle was fully submerged, with one person trapped inside.
Toronto Police officers from 55 Division were first on the scene. They rescued the driver, who had escaped the vehicle, and attempted to reach the passenger. Officers entered the freezing water without proper gear to try to save the trapped individual.
Shortly after, the Toronto Police Marine Unit arrived and pulled the passenger from the vehicle. Both individuals were taken to the hospital. The woman, who was a passenger, succumbed to her injuries Monday morning.
Safety Warnings from Police
Following the incident, Toronto police issued strong warnings about ice safety. Constable Viktor Sarudi emphasized the dangers of venturing onto frozen Lake Ontario.
“No ice is safe ice,” Sarudi stated. He urged people to avoid walking, skating, or driving on frozen water without professional testing.
Sarudi also cautioned against attempting water rescues without proper equipment. He recommended using tools like life rings or calling 911 immediately instead of putting oneself in danger.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are investigating how the vehicle ended up in the water. Forensic teams have collected evidence, and a post-mortem examination will determine the woman’s cause of death.
Officials have canvassed the area, seeking witnesses or additional information. Anyone who saw the incident can contact Toronto Police Service at 416-808-5500 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Community Concerns Amid Cold Weather
The incident occurred during a polar vortex, with temperatures well below freezing. Emergency responders, including four police officers, were treated for cold exposure and released from the hospital.
This tragedy serves as a reminder of the risks associated with frozen lakes during extreme winter conditions. Police continue to stress the importance of safety precautions near icy waters.
Stay updated on this story as more details become available.
More…
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/vehicle-water-ashbridges-bay-lake-ontario-1.7435828
- https://www.cp24.com/news/2025/01/20/female-pulled-from-submerged-vehicle-at-ashbridges-bay-dies-in-hospital-police
- https://globalnews.ca/news/10967476/ashbridges-bay-crash
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/polar-vortex-grips-toronto-extreme-cold-temperatures-hit-gta
