2 dead, Highway 401 partially closed after major collision near Ajax

An overnight multi-car collision on Highway 401 in Ajax has forced road closures after two people are confirmed dead in the fiery accident involving two transport trucks and a passenger vehicle.

OPP Srgt. Kerry Schmidt says a significant collision occurred around 11 p.m. Tuesday when the driver of a double-fuel-tanker travelling eastbound lost control colliding with the centre wall and rolling into the westbound lanes and caught fire.

The second transport truck and passenger vehicle were travelling westbound when they drove through the collision and caught fire.

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Schmidt confirmed that the drivers of the two transport trucks were found without vital signs and pronounced dead at scene. The driver and passenger of the third vehicle were not injured and were able to escape the explosion.

The crash has forced a closure in both directions on Highway 401 between Westney Rd. in Ajax and Whites Rd. in Pickering.

Due to the ongoing investigation and fire damage police say the section of the highway is likely to remain closed for the duration of the morning rush and urge drivers to consider alternate routes in the area as heavy delays can be expected.

Officers continue to investigate and have yet to identify the deceased drivers.

Any witnesses or anyone with information or dash cam are asked to call the Toronto OPP at 416-235-4981.

This article was made with files from The Canadian Press 

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