A tragic incident on Sunday has led to the temporary closure of the westbound lanes of Highway 401 in Ajax, as Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) investigate a sudden death. According to OPP, the incident occurred shortly before noon when a man, whose identity has not been released, fell from the Harwood Bridge and onto an oncoming vehicle traveling along the highway.
Witnesses reported seeing the man, a white male, jump from the bridge, and shortly afterward, his body was seen covered with a yellow sheet on the westbound lanes of the highway. Authorities quickly responded to the scene, and the westbound lanes of the highway were closed between Salem and Westney roads to allow for a thorough investigation. The eastbound lanes remained open throughout the incident, and the closure lasted until around 4:30 p.m.
At this time, police have not released further details about the incident or the circumstances leading up to the man’s death. The OPP is urging anyone who may have witnessed the event or has dashcam footage to come forward with any information. Those with information are asked to contact the OPP’s Whitby office at 905-668-3388 or Crime Stoppers.
The incident has left the community shaken, and many are now asking questions about how such a tragic event unfolded on one of Ontario’s busiest highways. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the man’s fall and whether there were any other contributing factors. Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to police or Crime Stoppers to assist with the investigation.
