With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we honor the life of Jose Castillo, a 66-year-old Toronto city worker and beloved Scarborough resident, whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating workplace accident. Jose, a 30-year veteran dedicated to serving his community, passed away while performing the duties he had carried out faithfully for decades.
The tragic incident occurred while Jose was collecting green bins and recycling on a quiet Scarborough street. Security footage shows the heartbreaking moment when the city truck he had stepped out of unexpectedly began to roll. Jose immediately tried to chase after the vehicle, demonstrating his instinctive commitment to responsibility even in an emergency. In his effort to stop the truck, he tripped and fell, and the moving vehicle struck him, causing fatal injuries. No other individuals were harmed.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour and Toronto Police have launched a full investigation to understand how the truck continued to move with the operator outside of it. They will also evaluate whether additional safeguards or equipment standards are needed to better protect frontline workers. For many Filipino Canadians working in essential and city roles, Jose’s passing is a painful reminder of the risks faced by employees who keep communities functioning every single day.
Jose lived in Scarborough with his beloved wife, and he was known among colleagues as a hardworking, humble, and loyal man — someone who showed up day after day, year after year, with the same quiet dedication that defined his career. His loss is not only deeply felt by his family, but by the entire City of Toronto workforce.
In an official statement, the City of Toronto expressed its condolences:
“We offer our heartfelt condolences to our colleague’s family, friends and peers, and are committed to supporting our employees during this difficult time.”
Mayor Olivia Chow echoed the grief felt across the city, calling the incident “devastating.” She has ordered flags at City Hall, Metro Hall, and all Civic Centres to fly at half-mast until further notice in honor of Jose’s life and service.
Today, the Toronto community — especially the Filipino community — mourns the loss of a kabayan, a friend, a fellow worker, and a man who gave decades of his life to public service. Jose served with quiet dignity, and he will be remembered for his dedication, humility, and the care he put into his work.
REST IN PEACE, KABAYAN JOSE CASTILLO.
Your service will never be forgotten, and your memory will live on in the hearts of your family, friends, and the people of Toronto whom you served so faithfully.