Christmas Eve turned tragic in North York when a car careened into a bustling plaza, shattering the holiday spirit. The incident occurred just after 2:30 p.m. on Dufferin Street, near Finch Avenue West, leaving a community reeling in shock.
The vehicle struck three pedestrians, plunging one man into a desperate struggle for survival. Trapped within the wreckage of Kantor Currency Exchange, he became the focal point of a frantic rescue effort involving firefighters and paramedics.
Despite their tireless work, rescuers were unable to free the man in time. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene, a devastating loss that cast a dark shadow over the festive day.
According to authorities, the driver had lost control of the vehicle while in the parking lot. The impact sent the car crashing through the front of the business, leaving the victim with no chance to escape.
Two other individuals sustained injuries in the collision. A woman was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening wounds, while another pedestrian received medical attention for similar injuries.
The driver and his passenger remained at the scene and are cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Both were treated for minor injuries at a hospital.
Investigators are now appealing to the public for assistance, specifically requesting any dashcam or video footage that may have captured the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities at 416-808-1900.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). The investigation continues as authorities piece together the events that led to this heartbreaking tragedy.
