Emergency crews are currently responding to a serious multi-vehicle collision on Highway 17 near Petawawa, Ontario, this morning (Wednesday, June 4).
The incident, which occurred near the intersection of Paquette Road and Highway 17, has caused significant disruption, prompting authorities to close the highway in both directions. Initial reports indicate that the crash involves several vehicles, one of which is believed to be a fuel tanker truck that has overturned.
Witnesses in the area reported seeing heavy smoke rising from the scene, prompting fears of a potential fire or hazardous material spill. As a result, police, fire services, and paramedics have mobilized quickly to contain the situation and ensure public safety.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have urged the public to avoid the area as emergency responders work to secure the scene and assist any injured individuals. The full extent of injuries remains unknown at this time, but with a fuel tanker involved, authorities are treating the situation with the utmost caution.
There has been no confirmation yet on whether the tanker spilled its contents, but the presence of smoke suggests that at least one vehicle may have caught fire or sustained significant damage.
As of now, Highway 17 is closed in both directions at Paquette Road. No detour route has been officially announced, and motorists are advised to seek alternate routes and monitor local traffic updates. The closure is expected to last for several hours as cleanup and investigation efforts get underway.
Residents in nearby areas have expressed concern on social media, with many posting images of emergency vehicles lining the highway and smoke billowing in the background. The sight has raised alarm among those living near the crash site, especially considering the potential danger posed by the overturned fuel tanker.
Local officials and emergency response coordinators are working closely to assess the environmental impact of the incident and determine whether there is a risk of fuel leakage into surrounding areas. Specialized hazmat crews may be brought in if a significant spill is confirmed.
This portion of Highway 17 is a major transportation route for both commercial and passenger traffic, and its closure is having a ripple effect on travel throughout the region. Morning commuters, school transportation services, and long-haul drivers are all being affected by the shutdown.
As of late morning, emergency crews remain on-site, and no official timeline has been given for when the highway will reopen. Authorities are expected to release further information as the situation develops and more facts become available regarding the cause of the crash, the number of vehicles involved, and any injuries sustained.
This developing story underscores the importance of safe driving practices, particularly on busy highways where large commercial vehicles are present. Drivers are reminded to remain alert, follow posted speed limits, and maintain safe distances between vehicles.
The public is encouraged to stay away from the area to allow emergency crews to operate without obstruction. More details will be shared by local authorities as the investigation continues.
