Victims Identified in Fatal Walkerton Crash That Claimed Lives of Four Girls and Their Coach

WALKERTON, ON — The Walkerton community is reeling from a heart-shattering tragedy that claimed the lives of four high school students and their beloved coach in a devastating crash late Friday evening. Authorities have now identified all five victims in what local officials are calling one of the darkest days in the town’s history.

The victims include:

• Olivia Rourke, 16
• Rowan McLeod, 16
• Kaydance Ford, 17
• Danica Baker, 17
• Matt Eckert, 35 – teacher, coach, and mentor

The crash occurred while the group was returning from a girls’ softball tournament in Dorchester. The SUV they were traveling in collided with a transport truck north of London, Ontario. All five people in the SUV were pronounced dead at the scene.

The four teenage girls were star athletes at Walkerton District Community School, where they played on the girls’ softball team. The driver, Matt Eckert, was not only their coach but also a much-loved physical education teacher known throughout the school and the broader sports community for his dedication, kindness, and ever-present smile.

A Coach, a Leader, a Friend

Eckert was also an assistant coach with the Owen Sound Junior B NorthStars Lacrosse Club, where he was praised for his passion for mentoring youth athletes.

“Matt wasn’t just a coach — he was the heartbeat of our program,” said a representative from the NorthStars in an emotional statement. “He gave his all to every player, every student. He brought light into every room.”

Four Promising Lives Cut Short

The loss of the four teens has left an entire generation of students and friends grieving. Classmates described them as vibrant, hardworking, and deeply loyal to one another.

• Olivia Rourke was known for her leadership on the field and her compassionate spirit.
• Rowan McLeod had a reputation for being fearless and full of life.
• Kaydance Ford was described as fiercely competitive but endlessly kind.
• Danica Baker was a team motivator, always encouraging others to push forward.

“These girls were not just teammates — they were sisters,” said a classmate through tears at a growing memorial outside the school. “They were the kind of people who made you feel like you belonged.”

Community Response: Grief, Solidarity, and Sneakers on Porches

In a spontaneous outpouring of support, Walkerton residents are placing sneakers on their front porches tonight in a symbolic tribute to the lives lost — a gesture organized by local parent Tim Lowe, who said, “It’s how we let them know they’ll never be forgotten.”

The makeshift memorial at Walkerton District Community School now overflows with flowers, sports gear, handwritten notes, and photos. Flags fly at half-mast, and grief counselors have been made available to students and staff.

Province and Nation Join in Mourning

Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his condolences on social media, calling the crash “devastating beyond words.” Politicians, athletes, school boards, and sports clubs across the country have joined in mourning, with many using the hashtag #WalkertonStrong to share their condolences.

Vigils are being organized across Bruce County, including a candlelight memorial scheduled for Sunday evening at dusk at the school grounds. Organizers are asking attendees to bring candles, signs, and jerseys in honor of the five lives lost.

Ongoing Investigation

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash. Initial reports confirm the group was traveling north of London when their SUV collided with a transport truck. The driver of the transport was not seriously injured and is cooperating with investigators.

No foul play is suspected at this time, but officials note that it may take days or weeks to fully determine the cause of the crash. Authorities are urging patience and privacy for the families during this deeply painful time.

“We Will Remember Them”

As Walkerton and the surrounding region continue to grapple with this loss, one thing is clear: these five lives will never be forgotten. They were students, athletes, daughters, friends — and a teacher who inspired generations. Their impact on their school, their teams, and their town is immeasurable.

Tonight, as porch lights glow and sneakers rest in silence across the region, Walkerton grieves. But it also remembers — with love, pride, and a promise to carry their legacy forward.

A community vigil will be held tonight at 8:30 PM at Walkerton District Community School. All are welcome.