Members of the Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating a number of recent incidents across the county.
Impaired Driving Charge
On May 22, 2026, at approximately 6:50 p.m., officers responded to a traffic complaint regarding a motorist unable to maintain their lane while travelling westbound on County Road 2 in the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand.
Police located a passenger vehicle matching the description, parked on the shoulder. Following an interaction with the driver, officers initiated an impaired driving investigation. The individual was subsequently taken into custody and transported to a local detachment for further testing.
Kelly HEDGE (50) from Brighton has been charged with:
· Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
· Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
· Possession of a Schedule I substance – opioid
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg in July.
In addition, a 90-day Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension (ADLS) and a seven-day vehicle impound were issued.
Motor Vehicle Collisions
On May 21, 2026, shortly before 6:30 p.m., officers responded to a collision at the intersection of Dundas Street and Prince Edward Street in the Municipality of Brighton.
Upon arrival, police observed a passenger vehicle partially blocking traffic after colliding with a pick-up truck. No serious injuries were reported.
As a result of the investigation, the driver of the pick-up truck, a 69-year-old male from Colborne, has been charged with:
· Careless driving
On May 23, 2026, at approximately 3:15 p.m., OPP, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the Fire Department responded to a single-vehicle collision involving a tractor-trailer that struck the centre median on Highway 401 westbound in the Township of Hamilton.
Two lanes were closed during the investigation and for heavy vehicle recovery, with traffic able to pass through one open lane. No serious injuries were reported.
The scene was cleared at approximately 5:45 p.m. The investigation remains ongoing. Updates will be provided as they become available.
Marine Incidents
On May 18, 2026, at approximately 1:20 p.m., officers conducting marine patrol on Rice Lake received a report of a sailboat grounded on a sandbar.
Police safely towed the vessel free, allowing the operator to continue their journey.
The Northumberland OPP remind boaters to remain vigilant of changing water conditions and shallow areas when navigating local waterways.
On May 23, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m., OPP and the Fire Department responded to a report of a boater in distress drifting on Rice Lake. Fire crews were able to assist the individual to shore. EMS transported the male to a local hospital as a precaution.
As National Drowning Prevention Week approaches in July, the OPP is reminding all boaters to be prepared before heading out on the water. This includes ensuring you have a fully charged phone, wearing a properly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device, and having essential safety equipment on board. Being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency.
Members of Northumberland OPP are committed to public safety, delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities. Officers value your contribution to building safe communities. If you have information about suspected unlawful activity, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers to remain anonymous at 705-745-9000 or www.stopcrimehere.ca.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
