A serious collision in downtown Ottawa has left three pedestrians critically injured after a vehicle crashed into a building on Rideau Street near Cobourg Street. The incident occurred around 9 a. m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, amid snow-covered roads.
Emergency services responded to the scene where an SUV had crashed into a building housing The Drop-In Centre. Paramedics treated and transported four pedestrians and the driver of the SUV to the hospital. Three men are in critical condition, while a woman was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The driver is in stable condition.
Ottawa Police have closed Rideau Street east of King Edward Avenue and are urging the public to avoid the area. The cause of the collision is currently under investigation. Witnesses at the scene described the vehicle as traveling at a high speed before the crash. Jennifer Sackaney, who narrowly avoided being hit, told CTV News Ottawa that the SUV "came out of nowhere full speed".
Authorities are asking anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact the Ottawa Police Service. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety, especially during periods of inclement weather.
