Breaking! Transport truck fire shuts down Highway 17 in both directions, affecting travel to Winnipeg

VERMILION BAY (Ontario) - July 5, 2025 - A transport truck caught fire this afternoon at approximately 1:00 p.m. local time on Highway 17 near Waldhof Road South. The incident caused a complete shutdown of Highway 17 in both directions, which has not yet been lifted.

After the accident, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) quickly arrived on scene and closed the area, urging drivers to take detours and avoid the stretch. No timeline has been announced for when the highway will reopen.

Highway 17 is considered one of Canada's major west-east arteries, serving as a key transport corridor connecting Thunder Bay to Manitoba and beyond, such as Winnipeg. This closure has had a significant impact on west-east traffic, especially commercial trucking. To avoid delays, travelers are advised to follow official instructions and choose alternate routes.