An Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer is facing several charges including criminal negligence causing bodily harm in the shooting of an 18-year-old man in Orillia last summer.
In a news release Monday, the provincial Special Investigations Unit said that on August 20, 2022, OPP officers became involved in a pursuit with a pickup truck. In the area of Highway 11 and Sundial Drive, the SIU said the pickup truck became involved in a collision.
"Both occupants exited the vehicle," according to the SIU. "Shortly after, one officer discharged his firearm and an 18-year-old man - one of the occupants - was struck. He was transported to hospital for treatment of a serious injury."
The OPP constable has been charged with the following:
- one count of criminal negligence causing bodily harm
- one count of careless use of a firearm
- one count of assault causing bodily harm
- one count of assault using a weapon.
In a statement from the OPP Association, the organization said it supports the officer "who was carrying out his duties."
"We provide him with legal counsel, and we look forward to a vigorous legal defence as the matter proceeds through the justice system," added the association.
The officer is to appear in court on March 28.
