Canada traffic crash kills two Jamaican seasonal farm workers Rupert Bell and David Lindsay

Jamaican farm workers Rupert Bell and David Lindsay, who were travelling together, died in a motor vehicle crash in Canada on Thursday at about 5:00 pm.

Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr said he was deeply saddened by the loss. "The death of these two workers is a painful reminder of the sacrifices many Jamaicans make to provide for their families. Today, two families have lost loved ones, communities have lost valued members, and our country has lost two hard-working citizens," he said.

Charles Jr added: "Mr Bell and Mr Lindsay dedicated many years of service through the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme, helping to support their families and contributing to the agricultural sectors of both Jamaica and Canada. The ministry mourns the loss of Mr Bell and Mr Lindsay and extends heartfelt condolence to their families, friends and fellow workers during this difficult time."

Bell had taken part in the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme since 2013. Lindsay had been enrolled in the programme since 2007. Both men returned to Canada for the current season on March 18, 2026.

Full details of the collision were not available up to press time. Information from their employer suggested they may have been on a Kubota tractor when another motor vehicle struck it. The incident happened in the Simcoe region.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security said there are unconfirmed reports that someone in the other vehicle involved in the fatal crash may also have died. Canadian authorities are conducting an investigation.

The labour ministry said it is in close contact with the Jamaican Liaison Service in Canada, the employer, and the relevant Canadian authorities.