LAURENTIAN VALLEY – Intentionally placed debris Highway 17 continues to concern the Ontario Provincial Police who fear a catastrophic accident could result if a vehicle comes in contact with the large obstructions while travelling at speed.

This is the third time OPP constables have found debris placed on the two-lane trans-Canada highway since Feb. 9.

“On Feb. 9, at approximately 9:30 p.m., members of the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the OPP responded to found debris on Highway 17 near B Line Road in Laurentian Valley Township,” OPP media relations officer Const. Tylor Copeland released in a statement Friday (Feb. 12). “The debris consists of a hot water tank and water softener tank that were both found on the shoulder of the highway.”

Both tanks were seized by police and police continue to investigate this incident along with a number of other incidents involving debris being placed on Highway 17 between the Pembroke area and Renfrew.

“As a result of the danger posed to public safety by these incidents the UOVOPP and Renfrew OPP have jointly initiated a focused patrol in an effort to deter these incidents and to apprehend the person(s) responsible,” Copeland said. “The UOVOPP Crime Unit has been engaged to assist along with an OPP Regional Operational Analyst (ROA), OPP’s Forensic Identification Services (FIS) and Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU).”

The Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the OPP is seeking information from anyone who recently discarded a hot water tank or Culligan softener system at the end of their driveway or has recently sold one. Also, investigators have located additional items such as tire rims. 

Anyone having information on the above incidents or any other crime is asked to call UOV OPP at 1-888-310-1122 /613-735-0188 or Pembroke/Renfrew County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or at www.valleytips.ca. 

Motorists are advised to be alert and watch for debris, especially in the early morning hours on Highway 17.