Driver struck and killed on Hwy. 417 in Ottawa’s east end after walking onto highway

Ontario Provincial Police cruiser - File Image (Bobb Barratt / OPP Photographer/OPP)

A man was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking on Highway 417 in Ottawa’s east end after his vehicle ended up in the centre median, according to police.

Emergency crews responded to a call for a collision in the eastbound lanes of Highway 417 near Anderson Road just before 4:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Ontario Provincial Police say a vehicle travelling eastbound “had driven into the centre median.”

“The driver then exited their vehicle and attempted to walk across the highway, where they were struck by another vehicle travelling eastbound,” the OPP said in a media release. “They were pronounced deceased at the scene.”

The eastbound lanes of Highway 417 were closed between Andreson Road and Boundary Road for more than five hours while police investigated. The highway reopened to vehicles just before 9 a.m.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and refer to case number E250229726.

The OPP is also urging people not to walk on the road after a collision.

“The OPP would like to remind members of the public that if you are in a collision, it is the safest option to remain in your vehicle and wait until emergency crews arrive,” police said. “Do not attempt to walk across the highway.”