Lowertown drop-in centre reopens after fatal collision

The Drop-In, located in Lowertown, reopened on April 8 over a month after a fatal collision. (Scott Rook/CTV News Ottawa)

A Lowertown drop-in centre that was destroyed after a vehicle slammed into its front entrance over a month ago reopened on Wednesday.

On Feb. 25, an SUV veered off the road and struck The Drop-In at Rideau and Cobourg streets, killing a man in his 70s as he was waiting for the centre to open.

• ‘Really wonderful, gentle soul’: Community reeling after fatal collision at Ottawa drop-in centre

Two other men were sent to hospital in critical condition, and a woman was sent to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“Today was bittersweet as we opened up again after too many days away from our community,” Capital City Mission said in a post to Instagram.

“We embraced both grief and joy as we came together today. Many of us talked about our friend who died just over a month ago and many of us hugged with grateful hearts that we were back together. Thank you for your care and support in these days.”

The Drop-In, operated by Capital City Mission, offers free meals and coffee to those in need.

The cause of the incident remains unclear. Ottawa police have not announced any charges.

• Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App