The company is “deeply saddened” as the investigation into the toddler’s death continues

Municipal police are still investigating last Thursday’s tragic collision in south Barrie that left a 23-month-old boy dead.

Barrie police were called to Red Maple Lane near Yonge Street and Mapleview Drive East on May 23 at 12:43 a.m. for an incident involving a small child and a recycling collection truck. The boy later died in hospital after being airlifted to Toronto.

“(The investigation) remains ongoing,” police communications coordinator Peter Leon said this morning.

Upon arrival, police learned the boy had been hit by a recycling truck. He was taken to a local hospital and later flown by air ambulance to a Toronto trauma center where he was treated for life-threatening injuries.

The further police investigation is being carried out by the Barrie police traffic unit, who were assisted by members of the forensic identification unit and officers who were assigned to the day shift, according to police.

Emterra Environmental, the company that operates the truck involved in the collision, responded in an emailed statement to Bradford Today and InnisfilToday affiliated Barrie Today Friday.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred on May 23, 2024, involving one of our company’s trucks,” said Brad Muter, the company’s chief operating officer. “Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with the family. We are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.”

Circular Materials has taken over recycling collection in Barrie starting May 1st. The organization contracts recycling collection in Barrie with Emterra.

City officials mourned the boy’s death, with Mayor Alex Nuttall among those offering condolences to the family.