Dryden reacts to fatal collision on dangerous stretch of highway

The City of Dryden has released a statement of condolence following the news that the victims of a deadly crash last weekend were Dryden locals.

Three people, aged 41, 15, and 12, were killed on Sunday in a collision between a pickup truck and a tractor-trailer on Highway 11 between Hearst and Kapuskasing, which the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is still investigating.

Reports say the Dryden’s Director of Community Services Jason Boyer was the sole survivor in the pick-up.

His 41-year-old wife Nicole and their two children, ages 15 and 12, were pronounced dead at the scene.

“On behalf of Council, municipal staff, and the entire community, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Boyer family, their loved ones, friends, and all who are grieving during this profoundly difficult time,” read one piece of the city’s statement.

The collision was one of multiple fatal crashes to occur over the lead-up to the holidays.

The Hearst-Kapuskasing stretch of Highway 11 was recently ranked one of the most dangerous highways for winter driving in Canada, as was the Kenora-Dryden stretch of Highway 17.

While roads can often be shut down when conditions become dangerous, this does not always occur in a timely manner, and roads which remain open can still produce their own hazards.

Winter travellers are advised to stay cognizant of road conditions, visibility, and possible weather events.

The City of Dryden is urging residents to respect the privacy of the affected family.