Snow squalls moving rapidly through the region Sunday afternoon caused hazardous driving conditions and led to multiple collisions along Highway 401.
At around 3:12 p.m. on November 9, 2025, Essex County Ontario Provincial Police, along with Lakeshore Fire Rescue and Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services, responded to the first of several crashes. Over the next five hours, officers were dispatched to 20 separate collisions across the highway.
Two OPP officers sustained minor injuries after their patrol vehicle was struck from behind while they were assisting at one of the scenes. Police said the officers had been providing emergency lighting to warn motorists to slow down as multiple collisions were being investigated ahead. Both officers were taken to hospital for treatment.
No serious injuries were reported in any of the incidents.
Police are reminding drivers to slow down and move over when approaching flashing emergency lights — a legal requirement that also helps protect first responders and other motorists.
As winter weather sets in, the OPP is urging drivers to adjust their habits to match changing road and visibility conditions. Motorists are encouraged to reduce speed, increase following distance, and allow extra time for travel as snow and ice become more frequent on Ontario highways.
Anyone involved in a collision can contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 for assistance.
