MIDLAND — The province’s Special Investigations Unit continues to investigate a collision that occurred overnight in Midland, resulting in the death of a 35-year-old Pembroke man.
“Due to complexity or circumstances, it’s difficult to say how long any investigation will take to complete,” said SIU spokeswoman Monica Hudon.
Hudon said the length of time taken to fully investigate the incident could be impacted by several factors, such as how long it took to conduct interviews and/or gather and analyze evidence.
“At this time, one civilian witness has been interviewed,” she said. “One subject officer and four witness officers were designated, and arrangements are being made to interview them.”
The initial investigation suggests that shortly after midnight Tuesday, an OPP officer travelling northbound on Highway 12 struck a man crossing the road at the intersection of Jones Road.
The officer, who was driving an unmarked cruiser, provided first-aid until emergency medical services took over care of the man, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Southern Georgian Bay OPP Const. Aaron Coulter said that since the SIU has invoked its mandate, the local detachment will not be commenting on the investigation.
The SIU has assigned four investigators, two forensic investigators and one collision reconstructionist to the case.
The stretch of highway remained closed between the King Street intersection and Jones Road throughout the morning Tuesday as investigators worked at the scene.
“In many instances, the Unit must also await receipt of reports from outside organizations such as the Centre of Forensic Sciences or the Coroner’s Office,” Hudon said.
“While the SIU recognizes it is important to resolve cases in a timely manner, the thoroughness of the investigation must take precedence over the length of time it takes to finish an investigation," she added.
