A three-vehicle collision occurred on Route 138 in Portneuf Sur Mer on March 31, 2026, at 10:56 PM ET, resulting in significant injuries and the tragic death of investigator Anaïs Fortin-Cozzens.
Four people were injured in the incident, with two sustaining serious injuries. One individual is feared to be in critical condition following the collision.
The crash took place on a bridge, leading to the closure of Route 138 in both directions for an indeterminate period. Due to the location of the accident, there is no local detour capacity available.
The Sûreté du Québec is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Sergeant Hugues Beaulieu serves as the spokesperson for the organization.
Investigators are facing a constrained scene that limits traffic options, making the investigation operationally complex and institutionally sensitive due to the serious injuries and the death of an on-duty investigator.
Officials have requested patience from the public as specialized teams work to complete their analysis on-site. Motorists and local residents should expect delays as the Route 138 closure remains in effect.
“The combination of serious injuries and the death of an on-duty investigator makes the investigative mandate both operationally complex and institutionally sensitive,” stated the Sûreté du Québec.
As the investigation progresses, officials have indicated that the scene may require extended forensic processing, potentially prolonging the closure and local disruption.
Once evidence collection is finished, investigators will work towards reopening Route 138. The investigation may also identify factors that could prompt additional emergency-response or safety reviews related to the bridge collision.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific causes of the collision, and further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
