A quiet Mississauga neighborhood has been overcome with grief as residents continue to gather at a makeshift memorial near a railway crossing where 13-year-old Leandro Santos was tragically struck and killed by a GO train on Wednesday. Throughout the day, flowers, candles, and heartfelt tributes have been placed along Alexandra Avenue, transforming the site into a place of remembrance for a young life lost far too soon.
Family and friends have identified the victim as Leandro Santos, a boy remembered by neighbors as energetic and full of life. His uncle, visibly emotional, visited the memorial and spoke in Portuguese, expressing the deep pain the family is experiencing. Fighting back tears, he shared that the loss has left them devastated and struggling to process the tragedy. He also revealed that Leandro’s mother is currently in the hospital, overcome with grief, while other family members are traveling from Portugal to be with their loved ones during this heartbreaking time.
Neighbors who knew Leandro are also mourning. One resident, who lived just two doors away, recalled often seeing the boy riding his small gas-powered bike around the neighborhood. He described Leandro as active and always “buzzing around,” a familiar and lively presence in the area. While he had occasionally worried about the boy’s safety on the road, he said he never imagined such a tragic outcome. When he saw emergency responders and a stopped train on Wednesday afternoon, he immediately feared the worst.
Another nearby resident recounted hearing the loud sound of a train horn moments before the collision. When he stepped outside, he was met with a chaotic and distressing scene, including another child screaming for help. Emergency crews quickly arrived and attempted life-saving measures, but despite their efforts, Leandro could not be saved. Witnesses described the experience as deeply traumatic, leaving the entire neighborhood shaken.
According to Peel Regional Police, the incident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. Authorities stated that Leandro and another young child were riding a motorized bike and crossed onto the tracks despite active warning signals. The crossing gates were down, lights were flashing, and bells were ringing as the train approached. Officials confirmed that the children were not accompanied by an adult at the time.
In the wake of the tragedy, officials including Doug Ford expressed condolences, calling the incident deeply saddening. Meanwhile, Metrolinx, which operates GO Transit, described the event as a tragic reminder of the dangers associated with railway crossings and emphasized the importance of rail safety.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief, honoring Leandro Santos with flowers, prayers, and shared memories—ensuring that his life, though short, will not be forgotten.