News Release
SIU Concludes Investigation in Meaford
Case Number: 07-PVI-035
Two SIU investigators were assigned to probe the circumstances surrounding the collision. The investigation revealed that on February 15, 2007, at approximately 6:40 a.m., an OPP officer from the Chatsworth detachment was driving an unmarked cruiser eastbound on Highway 26 in Meaford. The officer was working on an investigation but not responding to a call.
The officer lost control on Bay View Hill and crossed over the centre line into the westbound lane of Highway 26. The cruiser then struck the front of a Pontiac Grand Am and came to rest on a snow bank at the side of the road. A van that was traveling eastbound then struck the back of the cruiser.
The 53-year-old driver of the Grand Am was taken to Grey Bruce Health Services where she was treated for internal injuries. An OPP Cadet, who was a passenger in the cruiser, was treated in hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
Having reviewed all the available evidence, Director Cornish concluded that the officer was coping, as were all the drivers in the area, with poor road conditions due to winter weather. He stated, "The subject officer lost control on the snow covered road. Her driving did not constitute a marked departure from the standard of care that would be expected of a reasonable motorist in similar circumstances."
If you or someone you know has been negatively affected by an incident under SIU investigation and would like support, the Affected Persons Program is here to help. You can reach us at 1-877-641-1897. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7, every day of the year.
The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (municipal, regional and provincial police officers, police officers with the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, 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