Mississauga, Ont. — A fatal rollover involving a transport truck carrying hazardous materials has shut down the express lanes of Highway 401 in both directions near Mississauga, creating a major traffic disruption and triggering a hazardous materials response.
The incident occurred around 10:20 a.m. Thursday in the eastbound express lanes between Mississauga Road and Winston Churchill Boulevard. Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have confirmed the truck’s driver died at the scene after the vehicle crashed into a concrete barrier and overturned. No other vehicles were involved, according to the Ministry of Transportation.
Authorities are working to determine the cause of the collision. As of Thursday afternoon, the circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation.
The truck was reportedly carrying dangerous goods, prompting a cautious and extended emergency response. OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt said fire crews and hazmat teams are assessing the chemicals on board and establishing a safety perimeter.
“There are some dangerous goods, chemicals in there, that we need to be cautious about,” Schmidt said in an interview with CP24, noting that the exact nature of the materials has not yet been confirmed.
All express lanes in both directions—from Hurontario Street westward—have been shut down, with authorities advising motorists to avoid the area entirely.
Traffic expert Lisa Morales advised drivers to consider alternate routes such as Derry Road, Britannia Road, or Highway 407.
“This is only going to get more congested throughout the afternoon,” she said. “Collector lanes remain open, but avoid the area if possible.”
Schmidt added that the eastbound express lanes will remain closed for several hours, while the reopening of westbound lanes will depend on how quickly the dangerous goods can be safely contained and cleared.
Emergency crews remain on scene, and motorists are urged to monitor traffic updates and exercise caution when traveling in the region.
