London, Ont., Mayor Josh Morgan has formally recognized the courage and quick thinking of an off-duty paramedic who was exercising nearby when a Jeep plowed through the side of Sherwood Forest Mall, seriously injuring several women inside an exercise class. On June 12 at 7:40 a.m., emergency crews were called to the rear of the mall at 1225 Wonderland Rd. N., following a report of a vehicle crashing into the west side of the building. Seven people — the driver and six people participating in an exercise class at GoodLife Fitness — were injured in the incident. Morgan began Tuesday’s city council meeting by recognizing Mia L’Heureux, a frontline paramedic who is in her second year working for Middlesex-London Paramedic Service (MLPS). “While off-duty at a local gym, Mia heard the sound of a crash and immediately responded. Seeing a cloud of dust and debris, she ran toward the scene where she found multiple people injured, including a woman trapped beneath a vehicle that had crashed through the wall,” the mayor explained. L’Heureux didn’t attend the council meeting, but Morgan described how she demonstrated the skill, compassion, and calm leadership that “define the very best in public service.” “Without hesitation, Mia stepped forward to help,” he said. “Recognizing the immediate dangers, including the vehicle leaking fluids, the risk posed by the vehicle remaining in gear, and the dangerous position of the debris surrounding the trapped woman, Mia acted quickly to protect the woman and those nearby. She placed the vehicle in park, assessed the situation, and began directing bystanders and staff to assist.” The mayor said that when the first police officers arrived on scene, Mia and the responding officers were able to move the vehicle to a safer position, allowing Mia to reach the trapped woman and help free her. “On behalf of Council and the residents of London, we extend our sincere appreciation to Mia L’Heureux for her bravery and dedication. Her actions made a meaningful difference during a frightening moment and serve as an example of the impact one person can have when they choose to step forward and help,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Goodlife Fitness is also recognizing the actions of those who stepped forward in the wake of the incident. “GoodLife wants to express our immense gratitude to those who immediately stepped in to help one another, and to the first responders who arrived quickly to provide critical care,” wrote Tracy Matthews, senior vice-president of experience and safety at Goodlife. “We also thank the internal and external experts who worked together to secure and restore the club, helping return it to a safe space for health, fitness and community.” According to GoodLife Fitness, the gym reopened on Tuesday afternoon, although repairs continue to the fitness studio. Last week, London police announced charges had been laid in relation to the collision. Jennifer Lynn Hopper, 59, of London, has been charged with six counts of criminal negligence causing bodily harm.
