A tragic accident occurred on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, when a 26-year-old woman from Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce lost her life after her car was crushed by a heavy truck at the intersection of Route 173 and Route 112 in Vallée-Jonction.
According to Béatrice Dorsainville, spokesperson for the Sûreté du Québec (SQ), the incident took place around 12:30 PM. The incident involved a 53-foot truck, which, for reasons still unclear, tipped over and ended up on top of the woman's vehicle. Rescue efforts were prompt but unfortunately, the woman's death was declared at the scene.
Emergency services from both Vallée-Jonction and Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce were dispatched to the scene along with ambulance crews from the Cambi group, as well as SQ officers. Eyewitness accounts suggest the truck made erratic movements before it overturned, but detailed investigations are underway to understand the underlying causes.
Due to the severity of the crash, authorities have closed Route 173 at the entrances to Vallée-Jonction for the duration of the investigation, leading to significant traffic disruptions. Investigators and accident reconstruction specialists are on site working to determine the precise sequence of events. It was reported by SQ communications service early on Wednesday, stating, "The collision resulted in catastrophic outcomes for the vehicle involved, and we are taking every necessary step to unravel what happened here."
Firefighters, along with ambulatory services, faced challenges getting to the trapped individuals due to the wreckage's nature, which made access complicated and perilous. Initial reports indicated one person was still trapped inside the crushed vehicle, raising concerns about their condition.
While the investigation continues, the community feels the weight of the tragic event. Local residents express shock and sorrow over the loss. A close friend of the deceased stated, “She was so full of life, it's hard to accept she’s gone just like this.” The failure to comprehend the sudden nature of such accidents often leaves lasting impacts on families and communities.
Now, many are left wondering what safety measures could have been implemented to prevent such tragedies. The Sûreté du Québec urges drivers to remain vigilant at intersections, noting heavy vehicles, like the truck involved, can bring about significant hazards when mixed with regular traffic.
The SQ’s accident reconstruction unit will be compiling evidence and witness statements to piece together the factors leading up to the event. Their findings may provide invaluable insights, not only for this case but potentially influence future traffic regulations, particularly concerning heavy vehicles.
The local mayor extended condolences to the family and emphasized the community's commitment to ensuring road safety measures are reinforced. Public discussions are anticipated following the investigation results, signaling the potential for changes to local traffic management.
Authorities stress the importance of following traffic laws strictly and monitoring the behavior of larger vehicles on public roads, as adherence can prevent actions leading to regrettable circumstances such as loss of life.
Community memorials are expected to take place for the young woman, as her sudden passing has shaken many who knew her. The local council is also considering organizing forums aimed at raising awareness about traffic safety and community support following such distressing accidents.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues and more clarity is gained about the events leading to this tragic incident.
