Manitoba RCMP is raising concerns about the number of fatal collisions in the province this year, saying there is a significant increase compared to 2025. According to data from the police agency, there have been 43 fatal crashes that have resulted in the deaths of 48 people. This number is up 23 per cent compared to last year, when there were 39 deaths and it’s a 34 per cent increase on the five-year average. “These numbers should be concerning to all Manitobans,” said Sgt. Ryan Landry with the traffic division in a news release. “As we look forward to another busy long weekend on our highways and roads, we strongly encourage all motorists to make safe decisions when they get behind the wheel – for themselves, for their passengers and for others sharing the road.” Of the crashes this year, 29 have been in the last three months, including 10 in the past month. Driving while impaired has also played a role in some of these crashes, RCMP said. There have been 12 crashes in which drugs and alcohol have been confirmed or suspected to be a factor in the crash. RCMP said it is waiting on toxicology results from another 10 collisions. In comparison, there were 18 impaired fatalities in 2025. “Any vehicle-related death where alcohol or drugs is a contributing factor is entirely preventable. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” RCMP said in a news release. RCMP is reminding people to never operate any vehicle if they aren’t sober. With the long weekend here, people are being told to watch out for motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, as well as to be aware of wildlife. “Summer long weekends in Manitoba are a time to make plenty of memories, whether it’s at the cottage, summer festivals or just spending time with family and friends,” Landry said. “Help ensure those memories are positive for everyone by driving sober, being aware of your surroundings and following the rules of the road and the trails.”
