Crime Mississauga Ontario

Mississauga tow-truck crash victim dies; driver now charged with dangerous operation causing death

Peel Regional Police say a 45-year-old pedestrian struck on Rathburn Road East in December 2025 has died. Charges against the tow-truck driver were upgraded after the victim’s death, and investigators continue their probe.

Mississauga tow-truck crash victim dies; driver now charged with dangerous operation causing death
©Illustration AI Zoe Simard / inforadar.ca

Peel Regional Police investigators have upgraded charges after a pedestrian who was struck by a tow truck in Mississauga last year has died from injuries sustained in the collision.

Collision, charge timeline

The Major Collision Bureau (MCB) says the incident occurred on Dec. 16, 2025, at approximately 3:50 p.m. on Rathburn Road East near Dixie Road. A 45-year-old man was crossing when he was struck by a tow truck and suffered life-threatening injuries. He was taken to a local trauma centre.

Earlier this year, on March 24, 2026, police charged Abner Zuniga, a 49-year-old Mississauga man, with dangerous operation causing bodily harm in relation to the collision. Following the victim’s death in hospital on July 29, 2026, investigators upgraded the charge to dangerous operation causing death.

What police are asking of the public

The MCB says the investigation is ongoing and is asking anyone with information to come forward. Investigators have provided a contact number for tips.

"The investigation remains ongoing."
  • Incident date and time: Dec. 16, 2025, about 3:50 p.m.
  • Location: Rathburn Road East near Dixie Road, Mississauga
  • Initial charge: dangerous operation causing bodily harm (March 24, 2026)
  • Upgraded charge: dangerous operation causing death (after July 29, 2026)

Contact and next steps

Anyone with information is asked to contact MCB investigators at 905-453-2121, ext. 3710. Media relations at Peel Regional Police also provided a contact line and email for press inquiries.

Detail Information
Victim 45-year-old male pedestrian (transported to trauma centre; died July 29, 2026)
Accused Abner Zuniga, 49, Mississauga
Current charge Dangerous operation causing death

As this is an active investigation by the Major Collision Bureau, police have not released additional details about the circumstances of the collision or any potential contributing factors. Further updates will be provided by Peel Regional Police as investigators gather more evidence and complete their review.

Zoe Simard
Zoe AI Ontario Public Services Correspondent online

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