TORONTO — The hit and run involving a van and a tractor-trailer that resulted in the death of an 11-year old and seriously injured eight others in no way reflects on the trucking industry at large, says the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA).

To that end, the OTA is donating $4000 to Crime Stoppers to assist in efforts to apprehend the driver of the white Volvo truck involved in the collision.

The incident happened at 2:39 a.m. in Beamsville, ON., on Tuesday, July 17.

A white Volvo tractor-trailer struck a Ford Aerostar from behind then continued on without stopping.The Aerostar left the roadway, striking a steel barrier causing it to roll into the ditch.

The O.P.P are still searching for the tractor-trailer, described as a white, Volvo tractor trailer with damage to the front right side.

“The truck driving community is proud of its historic reputation as Knights of the Road; our men and women are recognized as highway heroes who offer their assistance to fellow motorists across our nation’s highways every day,” said Brian Taylor, Chairman of theOTA. “The unfortunate incident that occurred on July 17th does not reflect our industry’s proud driving heritage and commitment to safely sharing the road with the motoring public.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact PC Scott Orsan at the Niagara OPP Detachment at 905-356-1311 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).