A three-vehicle collision occurred on Route 138 in Portneuf Sur Mer on March 31, 2026, resulting in the tragic death of investigator Anaïs Fortin-Cozzens. The incident, which took place around 10 PM ET, left four individuals injured, two of whom sustained serious injuries.
The collision has raised significant concerns, particularly as one person’s life is feared to be in danger. The Sûreté du Québec is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, which has resulted in the closure of Route 138 in both directions for an indeterminate period.
Officials have indicated that the location of the crash, which occurred on a bridge, poses challenges for traffic management, as there is no local detour capacity available. Motorists and local residents are advised to expect delays as specialized teams work on-site to gather evidence and analyze the situation.
Sergeant Hugues Beaulieu, spokesperson for the Sûreté du Québec, noted that the combination of serious injuries and the death of an on-duty investigator complicates the investigative process. “The combination of serious injuries and the death of an on-duty investigator makes the investigative mandate both operationally complex and institutionally sensitive,” he stated.
As investigators face a constrained scene limiting traffic options, officials have urged the public to exercise patience while the analysis is completed. The investigation may require extended forensic processing, which could prolong the closure and further disrupt local traffic.
In light of the tragic events, there is a heightened focus on road safety and emergency response protocols, particularly in relation to the bridge where the collision occurred. The investigation may identify factors that prompt additional safety reviews tied to this location.
As the situation develops, further updates will be provided regarding the reopening of Route 138 and the outcomes of the investigation. Details remain unconfirmed.
For now, the community mourns the loss of Anaïs Fortin-Cozzens, a dedicated investigator whose life was cut short in this unfortunate incident.
