A 64-year-old woman was critically injured after being struck by an LRT vehicle in Scarborough.
Emergency crews were called to the area of Pharmacy Avenue and Eglinton Avenue East just before 1 p.m. on Saturday.
Investigators say the woman was on the raised portion of the LRT line as a westbound train was approaching.
“For some unknown reason, the 64-year-old pedestrian crossed the path of the moving LRT. Unfortunately, she sustained life-threatening injuries and she was immediately transported to a local trauma centre,” said police spokesperson Brian Maslowski.
The woman was struck just metres from a designated crosswalk, prompting Maslowski to issue this warning.
“Anytime when you’re crossing the street, any street, if you’re crossing an LRT line, please do so at designated areas. Also, at any time, please be aware of your surroundings,” he said.
Maslowski added that the driver of the vehicle did his best to warn the woman of the impending collision, adding that he is currently receiving the necessary support in order to deal with the traumatic experience.
Toronto police reconstruction detectives and uniformed officers showed up around 5 p.m. to begin gathering evidence and taking photos. Officers could be seen in the front cab of the vehicle and looking under the train. A few TTC personnel also showed up to take photos and look over the vehicle.
The train was removed from the scene shortly before 9 p.m.
In a statement to CityNews, Metrolinx said it is working with the TTC and emergency services to investigate the details of the accident, but provided no further details.
The train is part of the Crosstown Eglinton LRT, which has yet to open to the public. The line is currently undergoing testing by Metrolinx and the TTC in advance of an official opening.