Three dead in Fatal Crash on 401 in Ajax

A multi-vehicle crash on Highway 401 in Ajax has killed three and left many people suffering serious injuries.

The crash occurred at 10:30 Friday night.

A 12-year old boy and two adults are among the deceased. Five people are listed in critical condition. A total of 19 people were injured in the crash.

Highway 401 remains closed in both directions through the Durham Region.

Police say 20 vehicles, including four tractor trailers, were involved in the crash in the west-bound lanes of the 401 at Brock Street in Whitby.

Hwy. 401 from Salem Road in Ajax to Brock Street in Whitby was closed in both directions until about 1pm Saturday.

The accident occurred in an area currently under construction.

OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt at the scene said that it appeared cars had slowed in the construction zone and that a tractor-trailer did not slow down for the conditions, slamming into the back of vehicles and pinning vehicles under trucks.

OPP say that charges may be pending.