Tragic incident in Gatineau: Man died after car plunged into Ottawa River

Tashi Farmilo

A critical incident occurred on February 15th when a man was hospitalized after his car fell into the Ottawa River in Gatineau. The accident happened just before 8:30 a.m. near rue Jacques-Cartier in the Kettle Island area.

Reports suggest that the car skidded over a patch of ice and then plunged into the river. The Gatineau Fire Safety Department's firefighters quickly intervened, rescuing the driver from the water. It was believed that he was the only person in the car at the time of the accident.

The Gatineau Police stated that the man was swiftly taken to the hospital by paramedics and, upon transportation, his condition was deemed critical. Unfortunately, the man was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and paramedics, were dispatched to the scene following the report of the car's fall into the river. The area around rue Jacques-Cartier was cordoned off by the police, restricting access between rue Saint-Louis and rue Prince-Albert. This prevented media personnel from approaching the site.

An investigation went underway, local residents were escorted to their homes by the police. The incident caused significant disruption, with many drivers forced to turn back. The Gatineau Police explained that the investigation scene was not classified as a crime scene. When dealing with vehicle-related incidents, wider perimeters are often set to determine the vehicle's movement and avoid contaminating the scene.

The Gatineau Police continue their investigation to determine the causes and circumstances surrounding the event. Out of respect for the family, no further details were given about the deceased.

Photo caption: On February 15th, a man was hospitalized after his car fell into the Ottawa River near rue Jacques-Cartier in the Kettle Island area of Gatineau, just before 8:30 a.m. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. 

Photo credit: Tashi Farmilo