RICHMOND HILL, Ontario – A tragic incident occurred Wednesday afternoon when an SUV crashed through the window of a daycare, resulting in the death of a young child and injuries to several others. The York Regional Police reported that the deceased boy was just 1.5 years old. Six other children, aged between 18 months and three years, were also injured and taken to the hospital, with one remaining in critical condition hours later.

During a news conference, police confirmed that three staff members at the daycare were injured as well. The crash happened near Yonge Street and Nottingham Drive shortly before the usual pickup time. Constable Kevin Nebrija stated that a driver in his 70s was arrested at the scene, and authorities do not suspect foul play. "As you can imagine, this was a very chaotic scene. I can tell you that the initial information suggests the vehicle was in the parking lot at the time, and for reasons unknown, drove through the front of the window," he said.

Nebrija emphasized the distressing nature of the situation for parents, noting that all children had been accounted for and their parents were notified. Eyewitnesses described the scene as alarming, with small blue and green chairs visible through the shattered window. Approximately a dozen police vehicles were present at the scene, and as evening fell, fire trucks arrived to assist.

At the time of the crash, there were 96 children in the daycare, which has multiple rooms. Investigators are currently on-site gathering evidence to determine how far the vehicle penetrated into the building.

Local residents expressed shock and concern following the incident. Farrokh Zandi, a neighbor, remarked on the unexpected nature of the event, stating, "I think of the area as safe, and it was very scary to see that something like this could happen. I am sure these parents must be going through hell."

Faati Tabatabaei, who works at a nearby after-school program, recounted seeing a child from the daycare who appeared frightened and had a scratch. "I am scared too, because I don't know what happened exactly and it is like, you don't feel safe," she said.

Richmond Hill Mayor David West visited the crash site and described the event as "unimaginable." He expressed his condolences, stating, "It is hard to get your head around a tragedy like this. This is the worst day I have ever had in this position as mayor for sure, it was a very tragic and horrible day here in our city."

York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween shared his sentiments online, stating, "No family should have to deal with a tragedy like this." He assured the public that the police would continue to investigate the incident and provide support to the victims and responding officers.

Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra also expressed his concern, stating he was "deeply concerned by the tragic incident" and extended his thoughts to those affected. Yonge Street was closed between Gamble Road and Brookside Road as the investigation continued, and motorists were advised to avoid the area.