Community Rallies Around Family after Five Children Killed in Mapleton Crash

Support continues to grow for a family grieving the loss of five children following a serious collision in Mapleton Township.

The two-vehicle crash happened Friday evening at approximately 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of Fourth Line and Wellington Road 12. Ontario Provincial Police said a passenger van carrying 10 people and an SUV with one occupant were involved.

Five children who were passengers in the van died as a result of the collision. Police said the victims were four girls and one boy, ranging in age from four to 12 years old. The children were all related.

Four adults and an infant who were also in the van were taken to hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the SUV was also transported to hospital with serious injuries.

A GoFundMe campaign has since been created by family members to help with expenses related to the tragedy, including funeral costs, travel, lost income and supporting the family during their recovery.

Within hours of being launched, the fundraiser received thousands of dollars in donations from people offering support.

In the fundraiser, family member Nancy Doerksen described the loss as a tragedy the family is struggling to process, while sharing that several relatives remain hospitalized and face a difficult recovery.

Mapleton Fire and Rescue released a statement thanking the firefighters, paramedics, police and other emergency responders who attended the scene.

The department also offered condolences to the families, friends and loved ones affected, saying the incident has had a profound impact on the community.

The tragedy has drawn responses from leaders across the country.

Prime Minister Mark Carney shared condolences for the family and the communities of Elmira and Mapleton, while also thanking first responders who assisted.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also expressed support for those grieving and the individuals recovering in hospital.

No charges have been announced. Wellington County OPP said the investigation remains ongoing and further information will be released when available.

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or has information, including dash camera footage, to contact Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122.