Haldimand County, ON – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Haldimand County Detachment wishes to remind motorists of potential mischief activities involving debris being thrown at vehicles travelling on the Highway 6 bypass around Caledonia.
Several incidents reported in recent weeks are under active investigation. The OPP is asking drivers to be aware of their surroundings while travelling on the Highway 6 bypass and to report any suspicious activities.
Communities with overpasses frequently have to deal with incidents of debris being thrown at vehicles on the roadway below. Such actions are dangerous and can result in serious injury to occupants and substantial damage to vehicles. Any person found responsible will be charged criminally with mischief endangering life.
"This behaviour poses a serious risk to public safety, but unfortunately is not uncommon, especially in communities with overpasses," says Acting Inspector Michael Rigby, Haldimand County Detachment Commander. "Such actions are dangerous and we are doing all we can to prevent further occurrences here."
The OPP is maintaining a consistent presence in the bypass area, aggressively patrolling the bypass roadway and conducting surveillance of the Stirling Street Bridge on a constant, 24-hour, seven day-a-week basis. Six Nations Police Service is assisting by conducting periodic patrols of the area.
In addition the OPP carried out a crime prevention environmental evaluation of the overpass area to assess the potential for physical changes to help mitigate criminal activity on the overpass. The Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) recommendations are currently being reviewed with the Ministry of Transportation and Haldimand County staff. Some of the practical changes recommended include removal of trees and brush to make pedestrians and vehicles on the overpass clearly visible.
The OPP is also appealing to the public for assistance. "An extra set of eyes can make the difference," says A/Insp. Rigby. "We are asking people to report any unusual behaviour, parked vehicles or suspicious persons on any overpass at any time."
If you see anything suspicious or strange behaviour, call police at 1-888-310-1122. If you have information that may lead to the identification of those responsible for these mischief incidents, call the police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.