Video captures severe Markham car crash caused by rock throwing

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have released dashcam footage of a crash that sent two people to hospital in life-threatening condition, linked to an ongoing investigation into rocks being thrown at moving vehicles in the GTA.

In a news release issued Tuesday, OPP investigators said that since Sept. 20, the force's Aurora detachment has gotten 11 reports of rocks being intentionally thrown at vehicles travelling along Highway 48 in Markham. 

York police have also identified nine reports of rocks being thrown at cars in their jurisdiction, according to the news release. Police say they believe all of the incidents are connected.

The video was shot on the evening of Sept. 20, police say, and captures the victim's vehicle approaching from the westbound lanes of Major Mackenzie Drive when a rock was thrown from the eastbound lanes, causing the driver to lose consciousness and slam into a vehicle going south on Highway 48.

Two people were rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries in the wake of the crash, police say. One of those people has since been discharged, while another remains in hospital with what police are describing as "life-altering" injuries.

"These innocent victims were simply travelling on our roadways, which should be safe for everyone," Det. Insp. Sean Chatland said in a statement. "It's shocking that such dangerous acts are occurring in our community. 

"We're determined to put a stop to it and to relentlessly pursue whoever is responsible," Chatland said. "We want to ensure that no other family member or loved one has to endure such a traumatic experience."

In an interview with CBC News Tuesday, Chatland said police have no idea what the motive behind these attacks could be.

Police say that based on several reports, an SUV and its occupants may be involved in these incidents. Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers.