18-Year-Old Jaiwin Kirubananthan Identified as Suspect in Oshawa Hit-and-Run Crash
Oshawa Teen Identified as Suspect in Hit-and-Run Crash That Left Community Reeling
OSHAWA, ON — A serious motor vehicle collision has taken a troubling turn after authorities confirmed the identity of the suspect who allegedly fled the scene before emergency crews could arrive. The driver of the second vehicle involved in the crash has been identified as 18-year-old Jaiwin Kirubananthan of Oshawa.
The incident unfolded late Tuesday night, just before midnight, near the intersection of Simcoe Street and Adelaide Avenue, a high-traffic corridor that has seen an uptick in both pedestrian and vehicular incidents in recent months. According to Durham Regional Police, two vehicles were involved in a violent collision that resulted in significant damage to both cars, and at least one person was hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
While first responders worked quickly to secure the scene, it soon became apparent that one of the drivers was missing. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a young man exiting the vehicle moments after the crash and running eastbound down Adelaide. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses later confirmed those accounts.
By Wednesday afternoon, authorities publicly named Jaiwin Kirubananthan as the individual believed to have been behind the wheel of the second car involved in the collision. Police allege that Kirubananthan fled the scene on foot, abandoning the heavily damaged vehicle and failing to render aid or provide information as required by law.
Ongoing Investigation and Charges Pending
Durham Police are actively investigating the case, including whether speed, impairment, or reckless driving were contributing factors to the crash. A warrant has reportedly been issued for Kirubananthan’s arrest on multiple charges, which could include failing to remain at the scene of an accident, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and public mischief.
“We take hit-and-run incidents extremely seriously,” said Sgt. Michelle Carter of the Durham Regional Police Service in a statement. “Leaving the scene of a serious collision is not only a criminal offence—it’s a moral failure. We are urging Mr. Kirubananthan to do the right thing and turn himself in.”
The victim, whose name has not been released due to privacy concerns, remains hospitalized. Family members describe the aftermath of the crash as “a nightmare” and are pleading with the suspect to take responsibility for his actions.
Community Response
The news of the suspect’s identity sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly among peers and classmates who knew Kirubananthan. Described by some as “quiet but ambitious,” the teen had recently graduated from a local high school and was believed to be preparing for college.
“This isn’t the Jaiwin I knew,” said one classmate, who asked not to be named. “He made some dumb choices, clearly. But I hope he owns up to it. Running only makes it worse.”
Local residents have also called for stronger traffic enforcement and road safety measures at the Simcoe-Adelaide intersection, which has seen a number of accidents over the past year.
Call for Witnesses
Durham Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has dashcam or surveillance footage from the area between 11:45 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on the night of the incident to come forward. “Every bit of information helps us get to the bottom of what happened and ensure accountability,” police said.
Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers or by contacting the Durham Regional Police Traffic Services Unit directly.
A Cautionary Tale
This incident underscores the importance of accountability and responsible driving—especially among young and newly licensed drivers. Authorities emphasize that remaining at the scene of a collision is not just a legal obligation but a civic duty, one that can significantly affect the outcome for victims and the broader community.
As the search for Jaiwin Kirubananthan continues, so does the call for justice from those impacted by what should have been an ordinary night on Oshawa’s streets.
If additional developments or charges are announced, updates will be provided.