Tragedy Strikes as Two Women from Stratford, P.E.I. Lose Their Lives in Single-Vehicle Crash in Shediac, N.B.

Tragedy Strikes as Two Women from Stratford, P.E.I. Lose Their Lives in Single-Vehicle Crash in Shediac, N.B.

SHEDIAC, NEW BRUNSWICK – A tragic accident has cast a long shadow over the communities of Stratford, Prince Edward Island, following a deadly single-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of two women on Thursday, July 17, 2025.

At approximately 12:56 p.m., members of the Shediac and Sackville RCMP detachments responded to a distressing call reporting a single-vehicle collision on Highway 15 near Shediac, a town known for its scenic coastal views and vibrant summer tourism. Upon arrival, emergency responders found the vehicle with significant damage, having veered off the roadway under circumstances still under investigation.

Inside the vehicle were two beloved women—aged 71 and 73, both residents of Stratford, P.E.I.—who were tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. No other occupants were in the vehicle, and no additional vehicles were involved in the crash.

RCMP officers are continuing their investigation in collaboration with collision reconstruction specialists in an effort to determine the exact cause of the incident. As of now, weather conditions, road factors, and the possibility of a medical emergency have not been ruled out. Autopsies and further technical analysis will assist in clarifying what led to this heartbreaking outcome.

The news has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of Stratford, where both women were well-known and deeply respected. Friends, neighbors, and family members are grappling with the suddenness of the loss. Flowers, messages of condolence, and heartfelt tributes are being shared both online and at community centers as people remember the kind, generous, and joyful spirits of the two women.

“These women were lifelong friends who lived their lives with compassion, warmth, and a sense of adventure,” said one community member who knew them personally. “They were inseparable, always attending community events together, volunteering, and spreading kindness wherever they went. Their absence will be felt deeply.”

Mayor Steve Ogden of Stratford issued a statement offering condolences on behalf of the town, calling the tragedy a “devastating loss” and expressing solidarity with the victims’ families during this time of profound sorrow. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this terrible event. Stratford has lost two pillars of our community.”

In Shediac, first responders and residents alike expressed sadness over the tragedy. Local authorities noted that Highway 15, although generally considered safe, has seen a number of accidents over the years, often linked to driver fatigue, medical episodes, or wildlife crossings.

As the investigation continues, RCMP urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward to assist with the inquiry.

Meanwhile, grief counselors and support services are being mobilized in Stratford to help friends and relatives cope with the sudden and tragic loss. Funeral arrangements for the two women are expected to be announced in the coming days.

In this time of mourning, the broader Maritime community stands united in offering prayers, support, and remembrance. Though they are gone, the memory of these two cherished individuals will live on in the hearts of those they touched throughout their lives.