Heartbreak in Middlesex: Beloved Teacher Anthony Legare and Four Students Killed in Devastating Crash

Middlesex County, ON — May 24, 2025

A profound sense of sorrow blankets Middlesex County today following a devastating collision that claimed five lives, including four teenage girls and one adult, in a tragedy that has shaken the region and left families and friends heartbroken.

The Ontario Provincial Police confirmed that the fatal crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, at the intersection of Thorndale Road and Cobble Hills Road in Thames Centre, a rural community east of London. The incident involved three vehicles—two SUVs and a transport truck.

Emergency crews arrived to find one of the SUVs crushed from the impact. All five occupants of that vehicle, four high school students and a 33-year-old staff member from Walkerton District Community School in Bruce County, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have not released the names of the victims out of respect for the families, but grief has swept through the school and surrounding communities. The Bluewater District School Board confirmed the victims were part of a school group returning from a field trip. The loss has been described as “immeasurable” by educators and classmates alike.

“This is an unspeakable tragedy,” said one school official. “Our hearts are with the families and friends of these bright, talented young individuals. Their potential was boundless, and their loss will be deeply felt for years to come.”

Premier Doug Ford addressed the tragedy publicly, saying,

“I’m devastated to hear of last night’s tragic accident in Middlesex County, which has now claimed the lives of five people. My thoughts are with the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss.”

A Community United in Grief

In the wake of the crash, communities across Middlesex and Bruce counties have rallied together. Vigils are being planned, and flowers, handwritten messages, and school memorabilia have begun to line the school fence and the roadside near the scene.

The grief is palpable in Walkerton, where the high school is providing crisis support to students and staff. In a statement, the school board said,

“We are mourning the loss of beloved students and a dedicated staff member. We will ensure our school community receives the emotional support needed during this incredibly difficult time.”

Investigation Ongoing

The OPP’s technical collision investigation team is continuing its work to determine the cause of the crash. Early reports indicate that the SUV carrying the five victims collided with a transport truck under circumstances that are still under review. Weather and road conditions at the time were reported to be clear.

Police are asking anyone with dashcam footage or information about the incident to come forward to aid in the investigation.

A Lasting Impact

While answers may eventually emerge about the how and why, for now, the region is left grappling with the sudden and senseless loss of life. The heartbreak is not confined to one town or one school—it has rippled across southern Ontario, touching everyone who hears this tragic story.

This weekend, a community vigil is expected to draw hundreds who will gather not only in mourning but also in solidarity—to remember, to honor, and to heal together.

As one mourner at the growing roadside memorial put it,

“We may never understand why, but we will always remember who. We will carry their memory with us.”