Manpreet Gill Involved in Wrong-Way Highway 401 Crash That Killed Infant and Grandparents Pleads Guilty, Released on Probation

Manpreet Gill, the passenger involved in a deadly wrong-way crash on Highway 401 that killed four people, has been sentenced to just 5.5 months in jail—time already served—and released on probation. The April tragedy, which stemmed from a robbery and high-speed police chase, claimed the lives of a three-month-old infant, his grandparents, and the van’s driver, leaving a community devastated.

Manpreet Gill, the passenger in a U-Haul van pursued by police, was part of a liquor store robbery in Clarington on April 29. Court documents revealed Gill acted as a “lookout” while an accomplice stole $1,602.80 worth of alcohol. The theft spiraled into chaos when a suspect reportedly brandished a knife at an off-duty officer before fleeing.

The ensuing police pursuit escalated as the U-Haul veered onto Highway 401 against oncoming traffic, resulting in a multi-vehicle collision. The crash claimed the lives of Aditya Vivaan, a three-month-old infant, and his visiting grandparents from India. The infant’s parents also suffered injuries. The van’s driver, Gagandeep Singh, 21, was also killed, while Gill sustained serious injuries.

Gill faced 13 charges but was not implicated in the deaths or the police chase. During a November hearing in an Oshawa courtroom, he pleaded guilty to three charges, including theft under $5,000. Other charges were withdrawn. Justice Russell Wood sentenced him to a 5.5-month jail term—equivalent to time already served—and two years of probation.

Speaking through a Punjabi interpreter, Gill acknowledged his struggles with opioid addiction and previous breaches of probation. Justice Wood noted the possibility of “immigration consequences,” though Gill’s status in Canada remains unclear. He completed his education in India, earning a science degree before moving to Canada.

The SIU, Ontario’s civilian police oversight agency, confirmed its investigation into the police conduct during the chase remains ongoing. Spokesperson Monica Hudon stated that investigators have reviewed traffic camera footage, body-worn camera recordings, vehicle dashcam videos, and drone footage. Dozens of interviews have been conducted as part of the probe.

The investigation centers on the actions of two officers involved in the chase, whose decisions are under scrutiny. The fiery crash has reignited debates about police pursuit protocols and public safety during high-stakes incidents.

The fatal crash has left a profound impact on the victims’ families and the broader community. “This tragedy underscores the devastating ripple effects of crime and reckless actions,” said a local resident who attended a vigil for the victims.