Western mourns one of its students in fatal pedestrian collision

Western University has identified a young woman who died in a pedestrian involved collision Monday as one of its students.

Western University has identified a young woman who died in a pedestrian involved collision Monday as one of its students.

In a statement to CTV News, Western President and Vice Chancellor Alan Shepard said he is “terribly saddened to share that Maija Nenonen, an Honours Business Administration student in her first year at the Ivey School of Business, was the victim of the tragic traffic incident off-campus yesterday afternoon.”

The statement went on to say that Maija was originally from Sault Ste. Marie, and that “she is remembered as a strong member of our community who gave generously of her time to support others.”

Police say at 1:15 p.m. Monday afternoon crews responded to a collision involving a female pedestrian in the 900 block of Western Road. Cst. Sandasha Bough said the investigation is extensive and ongoing.

“Members of the traffic management unit have a very lengthy and complex investigation ahead of them. And this was a tragic situation. We are looking for anyone who may have seen or heard anything to please come forward. Witness statements are always valuable in relation to any investigation,” she said.

Police added that the driver remained on scene. Witnesses tell CTV News the incident involved a pickup truck and a trailer carrying landscaping equipment.

Some students who live along Western Road are still trying to come to terms with the tragedy. Ally Martinello and Ana Severt watched the aftermath of the unsettling incident unfold from their apartment directly across the road.