Danica Baker dies in fatal Walkerton car crash

Danica Baker dies in fatal Walkerton car crash

Fatal Walkerton car crash death of Danica Baker – Obituary

Danica Baker, a student at Walkerton District Community School, was one of five victims killed in a devastating car accident on May 23, 2025, just north of London, Ontario. She was riding in an SUV with three other teenage girls and their teacher, Matt Eckert, when the vehicle collided with a tractor trailer at the junction of Cobble Hills Road and Thorndale Road.

The group had been traveling back to Walkerton following a school softball tournament in Dorchester when the collision occurred. Tragically, none of the five people in the SUV survived the crash.

Danica, remembered for her energy, kindness, and spirit, was among four students who lost their lives in the incident, along with classmates Olivia Rourke, Rowan McLeod, and Kaydance Ford. Their teacher, Mr. Eckert, a coach and mentor both at the school and with the Owen Sound Junior B Northstars Lacrosse Club, was also killed.

To commemorate the victims, a candlelight vigil is planned for Sunday evening at Walkerton District Community School. The community has also been invited to place sneakers on their doorsteps in memory of Danica and the others whose lives were tragically cut short.