HEARST, Ont. — The Hearst and surrounding communities are mourning the sudden loss of three people following a tragic two-vehicle collision on Highway 11 west of Hearst on Saturday evening. The victims have been identified as Darrell Taylor, Raeanne Wesley, and Aaron Wesley, family members confirmed.
The fatal crash occurred as the trio was returning home from a funeral in Aroland First Nation, where they had attended services for a late uncle. According to family, Darrell Taylor was traveling with his sister Raeanne Wesley and her partner, Aaron Wesley, when the accident took place.
Family members expressed heartbreak over the sudden and devastating loss. “It is with great sadness and sorrow that my wife Carrie’s brother, Darrell Taylor, and her sister Raeanne Wesley and Raeanne’s boyfriend Aaron tragically lost their lives,” a family statement read. “Please pray for my wife, our precious mother Zelda, and our entire family during this unimaginable time.”
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported that the collision involved an SUV and a transport truck. Emergency crews responded promptly, but unfortunately, all three occupants of the SUV were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the cause of the crash, citing that the investigation is ongoing.
The collision has prompted extensive road closures. As of Sunday morning, Highway 11 between Longlac and Kapuskasing remains closed, while Highway 631 between Hornepayne and Highway 11 is also blocked. Provincial officials have warned motorists to avoid the area and seek alternate routes, noting that there is currently no emergency detour in place. The closures are expected to continue while investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
The community has responded with an outpouring of sympathy for the families affected. Residents and friends are sharing condolences for Zelda, the mother of Taylor and Raeanne, as well as Raeanne’s partner Jai and the wider extended family. The deaths of Taylor, Raeanne, and Aaron have left a profound void in the lives of all who knew them.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but loved ones are calling for privacy as they navigate the immense grief caused by this tragedy. Authorities are expected to release further updates as the investigation continues.