Ottawa, ON — The Overbrook community is in mourning after a tragic collision claimed the life of five-year-old Jaxson Mansfield-O’Brey, who was struck by a dump truck on Presland Road Wednesday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the residential stretch near Lola Street just before 3:45 p.m. Despite rapid efforts by first responders to save his life, Jaxson later succumbed to his injuries in hospital, Ottawa police confirmed.
A Tragic Afternoon in a Close-Knit Neighbourhood
Neighbour Kathleen Sauder was among the first to arrive at the scene and described the devastating moment she found the child.
“I saw a little boy face down, his bicycle pinned under the front wheel of the truck,” she recounted tearfully. “I called 911 right away—there was no one else around yet.”
Sauder said the experience left her shaken. “After giving my statement, the officer asked if I wanted a hug. I did. I went home and held my kids right after. They asked if I was okay—and I wasn’t.”
A Growing Memorial and an Outpouring of Support
By Thursday morning, a small memorial had begun to form near the crash site — flowers, notes, candy, and a handmade card left in Jaxson’s memory. Neighbours have planned a candlelight vigil for Friday night, reflecting the community’s heartbreak and unity in grief.
Local resident Denise Gelineau, whose children often played with Jaxson, described him as “a loving, playful boy who was known by everyone in the neighbourhood.” She said her family witnessed the aftermath of the crash.
“We saw his bike and his little shoes under the truck. It was heartbreaking,” Gelineau said. “Just two weeks ago, he was at our house playing in the yard.”
A School in Mourning
At St. Michael School, where Jaxson was a kindergarten student, the loss has deeply affected classmates and teachers. In a letter to parents, principal Micheline Boileau-Bougon said the entire school family is heartbroken and that a crisis response team is supporting students and staff.
“The passing of Jaxson Mansfield-O’Brey has touched every part of our community,” the letter read. “Our hearts are with his family, classmates, and friends.”
Ongoing Investigation
Ottawa police officers have been canvassing the area for witnesses and video footage as the Fatal Collision Unit continues its investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information or dashcam recordings from the area to contact them at 613-236-1222, extension 2345.
A Community Forever Changed
For those who knew Jaxson, the loss feels immeasurable. In a neighbourhood where children often ride bikes and walk home from school, residents say the tragedy underscores the urgent need for safer streets.
As flowers continue to gather at the curb on Presland Road, one message left at the memorial sums up the collective sorrow:
“Rest easy, Jaxson. You were loved by everyone here.”
