OPP OFFICER INJURED WHILE CONDUCTING TRAFFIC STOP

(THUNDER BAY, ON) – On Wednesday, July 23, 2014 at approximately 11:20am, an officer from the Thunder Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received minor injuries as a result of being struck by a fleeing vehicle while conducting a traffic stop on Chippewa Road in Thunder Bay.

The officer was struck by the vehicle being driven by the accused as a result of his abruptly leaving the scene while the officer was still speaking with him. A short distance later the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled, on foot, into the nearby bush.

Officers from Thunder Bay OPP, assisted by the Thunder Bay Police Service, and Anishinabek Police Service attended the scene and set up a search perimeter.

The suspect was apprehended a short time later by OPP Canine Unit as well as Thunder Bay Police Service Tactical Unit officers who conducted the search of the area.

The officer suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment and released.

Harold MACLAURIN, 49 years of age, from Fort William First Nation was arrested and has been charged with the following offences;

-Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle Cause Bodily Harm,

-Resist Peace Officer,

-Assault Peace Officer,

-Fail to Comply with Recognizance, all contrary to the Criminal Code.

Further charges include;

-Drive While Under Suspension (x2)

-Use Plate Not Authorized for Vehicle,

-Fail to Surrender Permit for Vehicle,

-Operate Unsafe Vehicle,

-Disobey Stop Sign, all contrary to the Highway Traffic Act as well as,

-Fail to Have Insurance Card contrary to the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act.

He has been remanded into custody at the Thunder Bay District Jail.

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