The city of Calgary is facing growing concerns over traffic safety following two tragic pedestrian fatalities over the Family Day long weekend. A toddler in a stroller and an elderly person were both killed in separate incidents within a day, highlighting an alarming trend as these incidents mark Calgary's seventh and eighth fatalities of the year. The Calgary Police Service has noted an overall increase in traffic fatalities, raising questions about the effectiveness of current measures in place for pedestrian safety.

Local city councillors are actively seeking a response from the provincial government regarding additional measures that could enhance traffic safety in Calgary. The incidents appear to have catalyzed discussions around reinstating photo radar enforcement in the city. City officials, including Ward 3 Coun. Andrew Yule, are advocating for the return of this method of traffic enforcement as a potential solution, as they analyze the implications of surprise increases in pedestrian deaths as well as overall traffic fatalities in comparison to previous years.

There is a palpable sense of urgency among city officials and the public following these fatalities, as the Calgary community grapples with the implications of rising traffic accidents. With Calgary recording 38 fatal crashes in 2025 alone, including the tragic losses of 15 pedestrians, the city is at a critical juncture where pedestrian safety becomes paramount in policymaking discussions. The mayor’s push for reconsideration of photo radar, previously banned, reflects a broader dialogue about enhancing road safety and protecting vulnerable road users in urban settings.