Ontario Moves to Ban Parking Outside Child Care Centres Following Toddler’s Death
Ontario is planning new rules to prohibit parking directly in front of or beside child care centres and playgrounds, following a tragic incident in Richmond Hill that claimed the life of a toddler. Several other children and staff were also injured when a vehicle drove through the front of a child care centre on Wednesday.
Education Minister Paul Calandra announced the government’s plan Thursday, saying the goal is to “ensure the safety of children and staff.” He confirmed that legislative or regulatory changes will be pursued to enforce the parking restrictions, though accessible parking spaces will remain.
“I have ordered my ministry to work with service managers, inspectors, and service providers to identify vulnerabilities and take immediate action ahead of upcoming legislative changes,” Calandra said. He also indicated a review of existing rules that may prevent child care centres from installing protective measures, such as bollards or raised curbs, would be undertaken.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred around 3 p.m. when a vehicle, previously parked outside the building, drove through the front window of the daycare. Seven children aged 18 months to three years were struck, along with three staff members. Tragically, a one-and-a-half-year-old boy was killed, while another child suffered serious injuries. The remaining victims are reported to be in stable condition.
Police have charged a 70-year-old man with dangerous operation causing death and two counts of dangerous operation causing bodily harm. Constable Kevin Nebrija clarified that current information suggests the incident was not deliberate.
A Hyundai electric vehicle involved in the crash showed minimal visible damage apart from broken glass and a dangling licence plate. Authorities removed it from the site later that evening.
Also Read: Richmond Hill Daycare Crash Leaves Toddler Injured
Community Response
By Thursday, the large front window had been boarded up. Residents left flowers, stuffed animals, candles, and a small basketball near the crash site as a tribute. A nearby sign reading “please slow down” remains a solemn reminder to drivers in the area.
The province’s swift action aims to prevent similar tragedies in the future and reinforce safety measures around child care facilities across Ontario.
Report compiled with files from The Canadian Press.
