Ottawa police said that two people were taken to the hospital with injuries described as serious following a collision that occurred Tuesday morning in the heart of the capital.

The police reported in a statement that the accident occurred at the intersection of Laurier and Elgin streets, resulting in severe damage to the small vehicle that was hit by the truck.

Emergency services stated that one of the injured was trapped inside the car for some time before firefighters were able to rescue him, while the other injured person received field first aid.

Authorities clarified that investigators are still working to determine the causes of the collision, noting that the intersection will remain closed until debris is cleared and evidence is collected.

The police urged citizens to avoid the area and use alternative routes until it reopens, and requested witnesses to come forward to provide any information that may assist the investigation.