Matt Eckert dies in fatal London, Ontario car crash

Matt Eckert dies in fatal London, Ontario car crash

Fatal London, Ontario car crash death of Matt Eckert – Obituary

Matt Eckert, a teacher and assistant coach from Ontario, tragically lost his life in a deadly collision near London, along with four high school students. He is being mourned as a beloved mentor, coach, and friend.

The Owen Sound NorthStars Junior B Lacrosse team, where Eckert served as assistant coach, expressed deep sorrow over his passing. In a heartfelt message, general manager Ethan Woods described the 33-year-old as someone who deeply connected with players and was a close companion to fellow coaches. The tribute highlighted Eckert’s warm demeanor and lasting impact, saying, “His smile and heart will always be remembered. We love you, Ecky.”

Team officials said they are working to find an appropriate way to pay tribute to Eckert that also respects the grieving families of the other victims.

The fatal accident occurred on Friday when the SUV carrying Eckert and the students collided with both a transport truck and another SUV just outside London. The group was reportedly returning from a school sporting event at the time, according to the local school board.

Ontario Provincial Police confirmed that the four students killed were teenage girls—two aged 16 and two aged 17—attending Walkerton District Community School.

The Walkerton community, located about 150 kilometers northwest of Toronto, planned a candlelight vigil at the school on Sunday evening. Social media tributes showed residents placing running shoes and candles on their porches to honor the lives lost.

Teachers and community members also shared images featuring the school’s emblem—a blue hawk enclosed in a heart—symbolizing solidarity and remembrance.

While police and school officials have not yet released the names of the student victims, Eckert was identified in the school’s staff directory and publicly acknowledged by the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation as one of their members.

Authorities reported that the occupants of the second SUV and the transport truck driver sustained only minor injuries.