Ottawa has recorded 26 traffic-related deaths so far in 2026, already exceeding the 23 recorded during all of 2025, according to the Ottawa Police Service. Police and their road safety partners are urging residents to reduce their speed, avoid distractions and take greater care when travelling through the city.
In an October 2 release, police also reported eight collisions involving life-threatening injuries this year. The warning follows a recent increase in serious and fatal collisions, with pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists among those killed.
Since September 9, the service's Fatal Collision Investigation Unit has responded to 10 serious collision investigations. Police said those included six fatalities and four cases involving life-threatening injuries.
Pedestrians and riders among those killed
The fatalities recorded this year include seven pedestrians, one cyclist and four motorcyclists. An ATV operator and a person operating a moped or seated scooter were also among those killed, police said.
Investigators have noted an increase in collisions involving older pedestrians and motorcyclists. The release did not provide a separate count for those collisions.
Police identified speeding, impaired driving and distracted driving as recurring contributing factors in collision investigations. Careless driving, dangerous driving and failure to obey road rules were also listed.
The service said most serious collisions can be prevented. Its appeal is directed at everyone using Ottawa's roads, whether they are driving, riding a motorcycle, cycling or walking.
Education and enforcement to continue
Ottawa police said they will continue working with road safety partners on education, enforcement and public awareness efforts intended to reduce serious collisions and traffic deaths.
Residents can also view, download and explore information released by the service through its Community Safety Data portal at data.ottawapolice.ca.
