Tragedy on Highway 101: A Wake-Up Call for Road Safety in Nova Scotia

On the night of May 10, 2025, a devastating collision occurred on Highway 101 between Falmouth and Hantsport, Nova Scotia. The crash involved a Honda Civic and a Nissan Sentra, resulting in the deaths of five people and leaving one survivor in critical condition. The Civic was reportedly driving the wrong way in the eastbound lanes when it struck the other vehicle head-on.

This tragedy has shaken communities across the province and raised urgent questions about impaired driving, road awareness, and emergency response.

Timeline of the Crash

At approximately 7:20 p.m. that evening, RCMP received a report about a possible impaired driver — a blue 2014 Honda Civic — spotted near Grand Pré. Despite attempts by Kings and West Hants RCMP to locate the vehicle, it was not found in time. Four hours later, at 11:12 p.m., the Civic was involved in a fatal crash on Highway 101.

The driver and passenger of the Civic, both from Falmouth, were pronounced dead at the scene. The Nissan Sentra, carrying four people, was struck head-on. Three of its occupants — from Oxford and Nappan, NS — also died from the collision. The fourth occupant, a 29-year-old man originally from British Columbia, survived but sustained critical injuries.

The Survivor: Colby Allen

The lone survivor of the crash has since been identified by family and community as Colby Allen. He was airlifted to Halifax and remains in recovery.

Hi, my name is Jan Saunders & I am a friend of the Allen family. The Allen family are longtime residents of Pugwash, Nova Scotia. As you may have heard, Colby was in a horrific car accident. Unfortunately, there were fatalities and Colby was the only survivor. He is in need of financial support to assist him on his journey to recovery. Any donation is greatly appreciated by the Allen family. Thank you.

— Jan Saunders, Fundraiser Organiser

May 16 Update

Hi all. Colby is doing so much better. He is moved to a ward now. I see there are other fundraisers for Randy & Amanda Oickle’s family. Please consider helping their family… thanks again. — Jan

Remembering the Victims

This incident claimed the lives of five individuals, including Randy and Amanda Oickle, a couple from Falmouth who were loved in their community. Friends and family have been sharing tributes online and participating in multiple fundraisers to support those left behind, especially the children of the Oickles.

As of this writing, support pages have been created to assist both the Allen family and the Oickle family during this incredibly difficult time.

Ongoing Investigation

The RCMP West Hants Detachment is continuing to investigate the crash. Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen the blue 2014 Honda Civic earlier that evening or who may have dashcam footage to come forward.

If you have information, contact West Hants RCMP at 902-798-2207 or leave an anonymous tip through Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers.

Community and Safety Awareness

This heartbreaking incident is not just a tragedy for the families involved — it’s a reminder to every Nova Scotia driver about the importance of safe, sober, and alert driving. Whether you’re on a busy city route or a rural stretch like Highway 101, decisions behind the wheel matter.

For more information on road safety, visit Transport Canada’s Road Safety Resources.

Final Thoughts

The Falmouth crash will remain in the hearts of Nova Scotians for years to come. It has taken lives, changed families forever, and sparked community action. While no post can undo that loss, awareness and support can help honor the victims and lift the survivors.

If you wish to contribute, search for verified GoFundMe pages related to Colby Allen or the Oickle family. Your kindness makes a real difference.