Manitoba RCMP continues to see significant uptick in motor vehicle fatalities so far this year

October 30, 2026 - Headingley, Manitoba
From: Manitoba RCMP

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A significant increase in the number of Manitoba motor vehicle fatalities this year has prompted a reminder from RCMP for motorists to drive responsibly.

The reminder follows collisions in the past week in Dominion City and The Pas that resulted in the deaths of two 19-year-old males. For the month of October alone, the Manitoba RCMP has responded to eight collisions that have killed eight people.

For the year, the Manitoba RCMP has responded to 65 fatal collisions that have claimed the lives of 73 people. 

This is an increase of 28 per cent from this time last year – when 57 deaths had been recorded. It is also 28 per cent above the five-year average.

Twenty-five of the 73 people who have died in collisions this year were under the age of 30.

“The high number of fatal collisions that have occurred this year is deeply concerning,” said Staff Sgt. Jon Greer, RCMP Traffic Services Enforcement Commander. “These traumatic events leave a lasting impact on the families and friends of the lost. They also deeply affect the first responders, volunteer firefighters, paramedics and police who respond to these tragedies.”

Various factors have contributed to each collision and include:

• Alcohol and/or drug impairment. Year to date, impairment is confirmed or suspected in 17 fatal collisions, with RCMP awaiting confirmation via toxicology tests in 11 of those cases.
• Speed. Vehicles travelling above the speed limit have been cited as a contributing factor in 11 fatal collisions.
• Seatbelt use. The number of fatal collisions this year where at least one person wasn’t wearing a seatbelt or helmet (in collisions involving off-road vehicles) is 23.

In total, 14 collisions that have resulted in the deaths of 18 people this year occurred at intersections. Ten fatal collisions this year have involved off-road vehicles, such as ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes and snowmobiles.

In response to the increase in road fatalities, Manitoba RCMP are placing an increased emphasis on traffic enforcement throughout the province over the coming weeks and months.

Drivers are urged to stay sober, be on the lookout for motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, be mindful of wildlife, not exceed posted speed limits and not look at their cellphones.

“Motorists need to stay alert and follow the rules of the road at all times,” said Greer. “Making smart decisions when behind the wheel will allow themselves, as well as others on the road, to get home safely.”