Community Grieves Three-Year-Old Girl Killed in Cambridge Crash

UPDATE: A devastated community in Cambridge is mourning the tragic death of a three-year-old girl following a fatal collision just before 1 p.m. on Thursday. The child was struck while walking with a 31-year-old woman in the Cedar Street area near the Westgate Centre plaza.

Emergency responders rushed the child to the hospital, but she succumbed to her life-threatening injuries shortly after arrival. The woman suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and is currently recovering. The driver, a 75-year-old man from Cambridge, was unharmed in the incident.

Police confirm that the investigation is ongoing and have not released further comments.

In the wake of this tragedy, the community has come together to express their sorrow. Floral tributes, stuffed animals, and heartfelt messages have filled the area near the crash site. Community members gathered Thursday evening to pay their respects, showcasing the profound impact of this loss.

The Healing of the Seven Generations organization has called for support from Indigenous leaders, hosting a sacred fire ceremony in Cambridge over the weekend. This ceremony aims to provide solace to the grieving family and community. The sacred fire is expected to burn for four days, symbolizing the community’s mourning and support.

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist the child’s family during this devastating time. Community leaders are urging residents to contribute and share their condolences.

As the community processes this heartbreaking event, safety concerns are rising. CTV News reported on an additional collision on Cedar Street involving two vehicles the day after the fatal incident. Reports indicate that one individual was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, and one driver was charged.

Shawn Haas, a local disability advocate, expressed his anguish, stating he had narrowly avoided being struck at the same crosswalk. “I’ve talked to the police a couple of times and informed them on what has happened and how close I’ve actually been to getting hit,” he shared. “And then to have the three-year-old die? It’s inexcusable.”

In response to these incidents, Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett indicated that the city might advocate for further safety measures in the area, including lowering the speed limit or designating it as a community safety zone. “This is not a community safety zone here. So that’s why it’s 50 km/h. But that’s something that maybe should be considered,” she stated. “My transportation team will put that forward, most likely to the region to see about having that happen.”

As community members rally together to support the grieving family and demand safer streets, the investigation into this tragic collision is ongoing. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.