A child has tragically died from injuries sustained in a serious collision on Highway 7 between Perth and Carleton Place. The Ontario Provincial Police are investigating the fatal crash that has left the Ottawa Valley community in mourning during what should be a joyful holiday season.
The crash occurred on Highway 7, a major arterial route connecting Perth to Carleton Place in Lanark County. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and the child was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries but sadly succumbed to those injuries. The OPP’s Technical Collision Investigation unit has been called in to determine the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: A child has died following a collision on Highway 7 between Perth and Carleton Place. OPP are investigating the cause of the crash. Highway 7 is known for challenging winter driving conditions. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution on rural highways, especially during December weather.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | December 2025 |
| 📍 Location | Highway 7, Perth-Carleton Place |
| 🎟️ Investigation | OPP Technical Collision Unit |
| ⏰ Road Status | Check 511 Ontario for updates |
What We Know
The Collision
The crash occurred on Highway 7, the busy corridor that connects Perth to Carleton Place and ultimately to Ottawa. This stretch of highway sees significant traffic volume as residents commute between communities in Lanark County and the National Capital Region.
Emergency services responded to the scene, including paramedics, fire services, and Ontario Provincial Police. The child was initially transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries before being pronounced deceased.
Details about other vehicles involved, the number of occupants, and the specific location of the crash along Highway 7 are still being confirmed by investigators.
OPP Investigation
The OPP’s Technical Collision Investigation unit has taken over the investigation. These specialized officers are trained to reconstruct crash scenes and determine contributing factors such as:
- Vehicle speeds and trajectories
- Road and weather conditions
- Mechanical failures
- Driver behaviour
The investigation is ongoing, and the OPP has asked anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage to contact Lanark County OPP.
Highway 7: A Known Challenge
Winter Driving Concerns
Highway 7 between Perth and Carleton Place presents particular challenges for drivers:
- Two-lane highway with limited passing opportunities
- Rural setting with variable speed limits
- Exposure to wind and drifting snow
- Heavy truck traffic serving local industries
- Limited lighting in many sections
During winter months, this corridor can become treacherous quickly. Black ice, blowing snow, and reduced visibility are common hazards that catch even experienced drivers off guard.
Recent Conditions
December 2025 has brought significant snowfall to the Ottawa region, with temperatures fluctuating around freezing. These conditions create the freeze-thaw cycle that leads to icy road surfaces, particularly on less-trafficked routes where salt and sand applications may be less frequent.
Drivers on Highway 7 and similar rural highways are reminded to:
- Reduce speed in winter conditions
- Increase following distance significantly
- Ensure headlights are on at all times
- Avoid sudden braking or steering manoeuvres
- Check road conditions before departing
Community Response
Mourning a Young Life
The loss of a child in any circumstance is devastating, but deaths during the holiday season carry an especially heavy weight. Communities in Perth, Carleton Place, and the surrounding area are reeling from this tragedy.
Local officials have expressed condolences to the family, and grief counselling resources are being made available through area schools and community organizations. The tight-knit communities of Lanark County are known for rallying around families in crisis, and support is expected to pour in for those affected.
Calls for Road Safety
This fatal collision has renewed calls for improved road safety measures on Highway 7. Long-standing concerns about the highway include:
- Need for additional passing lanes
- Requests for improved winter maintenance
- Calls for reduced speed limits in certain sections
- Interest in rumble strips and other safety features
The Ministry of Transportation Ontario regularly reviews highway safety, though major infrastructure improvements often take years to implement.
How to Stay Safe
Winter Driving Essentials
If you must travel Highway 7 or similar rural highways this winter:
Before You Go:
- Check road conditions at 511on.ca or the 511 Ontario app
- Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready (tires, battery, wipers)
- Tell someone your route and expected arrival time
- Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
On the Road:
- Drive to conditions, not the speed limit
- Leave extra space between vehicles
- Stay alert for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk
- Use four-way flashers in reduced visibility
- Pull over safely if conditions deteriorate
Emergency Kit Essentials:
- Blankets and warm clothing
- Flashlight and batteries
- First aid kit
- Phone charger
- Non-perishable snacks and water
- Small shovel and sand or kitty litter
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where exactly did the Highway 7 crash occur? A: The crash occurred on Highway 7 between Perth and Carleton Place in Lanark County. Specific details about the exact location are part of the ongoing OPP investigation.
Q: Is Highway 7 still open? A: Check 511 Ontario (511on.ca) for current road conditions and any closures. Roads may be temporarily closed during collision investigations.
Q: How can I report information about this crash? A: If you witnessed the collision or have dashcam footage, contact Lanark County OPP. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Q: What should I do if I encounter an accident scene? A: Slow down, move over if safe, and do not stop unless you can provide direct assistance. Call 911 to report any crashes where emergency services have not yet arrived.
Q: Are winter tires mandatory in Ontario? A: Winter tires are not legally mandatory in Ontario, but they are strongly recommended. Insurance companies often offer discounts for winter tire use, and they significantly improve safety on snowy and icy roads.
Final Thoughts
The loss of a child on Highway 7 is a tragedy that will forever mark this December for one family and their community. As the OPP investigation continues, answers about what caused this crash will eventually emerge, but nothing can undo the devastation of a young life lost.
For all of us sharing the roads this winter, this heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder to drive with extra care. Slow down, stay alert, and arrive alive. No destination is worth a life.
Source: CBC Ottawa - Highway 7 fatal collision coverage
For more safety news, visit Ottawa Beware or explore Local News.
