On October 9, 2024, a devastating incident unfolded at the intersection of Kingston and Kingswood roads in Toronto, claiming the life of 22-year-old Rachel Turner. Rachel, a recent graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University with a degree in Business Administration, was on her way to work, just a block from her home, when a school bus making a left-hand turn struck her as she crossed the street in a marked crosswalk. Rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, Rachel tragically succumbed to her injuries a few days later, leaving her family and community heartbroken. The incident has sparked legal action against the bus driver and the bus company, raising concerns about pedestrian safety and the responsibility of those operating large vehicles.
Rachel’s parents, Susan and Leon Turner, described their daughter as a bright, creative, determined, and compassionate young woman with a promising future ahead of her. Having just returned from a six-month trip abroad with her boyfriend, Rachel was eager to embark on her career in marketing and continue exploring the world. Her sudden loss has left an irreparable void in the Turner family, who are now grappling with the unimaginable grief of losing a child. The Turners expressed the profound impact of Rachel’s death, emphasizing the loss of future milestones and the daily struggle to cope with their profound sorrow. Rachel’s siblings also share in the family’s grief, mourning the loss of their sister and the incompleteness they now feel.
Following the accident, Toronto police conducted an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Their investigation culminated in charges against the 60-year-old bus driver, Anthony Phillips. Phillips faces charges of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death and careless driving causing death. The Turner family, represented by lawyer Michael Smitiuch of Smitiuch Injury Law, has launched a lawsuit against both Phillips and his employer, FirstCanada, the bus company. The lawsuit seeks $9.5 million in damages, alleging that the driver was distracted and speeding, and that the bus company failed to provide adequate training and implement necessary safety measures.
The tragic death of Rachel Turner has brought renewed attention to the issue of school bus safety in Toronto and beyond. Smitiuch pointed to a federal task force that investigated school bus safety in 2019 and 2020, which made recommendations to Transport Canada, including the implementation of pedestrian detection sensors and automated braking systems on buses. He stressed the importance of holding bus drivers and their employers accountable for ensuring public safety, particularly in light of previous incidents involving school buses in the Toronto area. The lawyer lamented this incident as another senseless tragedy and called for a higher level of responsibility from those operating such large vehicles.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the family has established the Rachel Turner Legacy Fund through a GoFundMe campaign. The fund aims to honor Rachel’s memory by supporting causes she cared about and continuing her legacy of generosity and empathy. Specifically, the fund will provide resources and support, including crisis counseling, to young people. The outpouring of support from the community has been remarkable, with donations exceeding $157,000 as of early Friday afternoon following the incident. The fund serves as a testament to the impact Rachel had on those who knew her and a way to ensure that her spirit of giving continues to make a difference in the lives of others.
The tragic loss of Rachel Turner serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences that can result from negligence. The ongoing legal proceedings will determine the extent of responsibility held by the bus driver and the bus company. In the meantime, the Rachel Turner Legacy Fund stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that Rachel’s memory lives on through acts of kindness and support for young people in need. The incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and improvements in safety measures to prevent future tragedies and protect vulnerable pedestrians on our roads.
