Saint-Barthélemy, Ontario – The identity of the driver involved in a tragic head-on collision on Highway 40 has been confirmed as Samantha Emilie Bryan, a 24-year-old resident of New Tecumseth, Ontario. The collision, which occurred late Sunday afternoon, resulted in the deaths of Bryan and one other individual, whose identity has yet to be released by authorities.
The fatal incident unfolded during a high-speed police pursuit that began in Lanoraie. Bryan, driving a Kia Soul, was reportedly fleeing from police when her vehicle ended up traveling in the wrong direction on the highway. The resulting head-on collision with a pickup truck was captured on video by other motorists, showing the terrifying moment as the Kia Soul barreled down the highway in reverse, leaving other drivers with mere seconds to react.
The Bureau of Independent Investigations (EBI) has disclosed that the two passengers in the second vehicle involved in the crash were hospitalized with injuries. One of the passengers is in serious condition and has fallen into a coma.
The tragic event has sparked widespread discussion and concern, especially regarding the safety protocols surrounding police pursuits. On Facebook, users expressed mixed reactions. Marie Pier Galarno commented, "Je pensais que les poursuites policières étaient maintenant interdites dû aux risques trop importants," questioning the necessity of such high-risk pursuits. Another user, Alexandra Cloutier, speculated about Bryan’s possible state of mind, asking, "C’est se demander si la Kia voulait se suicider… irrationnel comme geste et d’aucune logique."
Former police officer André Durocher, now the director of community relations and road safety at CAA Quebec, emphasized the risks of high-speed pursuits. He advised that in situations where a head-on collision seems imminent, drivers should consider using the shoulder or driving into a ditch as a last resort. Durocher also highlighted the difficult decisions police officers must make during such pursuits, balancing public safety with the need to apprehend suspects.
As the community mourns the loss of Samantha Emilie Bryan and the unnamed second victim, the investigation continues, with many questioning whether the tragic outcome could have been avoided.