News Release

News Release

SIU Appeals for Witnesses in Orillia Death of Cyclist

Case Number: 12-PVD-074   

Mississauga (26 March, 2012) --- The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is continuing to probe the circumstances surrounding the death of 85-years-old David Nesbitt. 

While riding his bike, Mr. Nesbitt was struck by an unmarked police vehicle being driven by an OPP officer on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at approximately 4:45 p.m.  The incident occurred on Atherley Road near Gill Street, by the Giant Tiger outlet.  Mr. Nesbitt succumbed to his injuries in hospital a few days later.

During the course of the investigation, the SIU has learned that a husband, his wife and child were in a silver-colored vehicle being driven by the husband, and were following the black unmarked SUV.  It is believed the driver may have witnessed the collision.  The SIU is requesting the man – and anyone else with information – contact the lead investigator at 416-622-1935 or 1-800-787-8529 extension 1935.

The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (police officers as well as special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service) that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators who are civilians. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must

• consider whether the official has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation
• depending on the evidence, cause a criminal charge to be laid against the official where grounds exist for doing so, or close the file without any charges being laid
• publicly report the results of its investigations