OPP OFFICER FACING ASSAULT, WEAPONS CHARGES

18-YEAR-OLD MAN INJURED AFTER SIU SAYS OFFICER DISCHARGED HIS WEAPON FOLLOWING DRUNK DRIVING PURSUIT

An Orillia OPP officer is facing charges following a police-involved shooting last summer.

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) was called in to probe an incident that occurred on Aug. 20, 2022, after an 18-year-old man was allegedly shot following a collision in the area of Hwy. 11 and Sundial Drive.

Investigators say OPP officers began a pursuit of a pickup truck on West Street at 4:15 a.m., believing the driver to be under the influence.

However, the pickup didn't stop, and struck a light standard in a Sundial Drive parking lot, according to the SIU — which added that two men in the vehicle were able to exit the vehicle safely.

However, the SIU report indicates a struggle ensued between an officer and the men as an arrest attempt was being made, and an officer's weapon was discharged.

An 18-year-old man was allegedly struck by a bullet and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment of a serious injury.

The other man involved was also arrested and taken to hospital, the SIU reported.

The SIU says OPP Const. Michael Walli now faces charges of criminal negligence causing harm, careless use of a firearm, assault with a weapon, and assault causing bodily harm.

Meanwhile, the Ontario Provincial Police Association has issued a statement of support for Const. Walli, saying the officer was merely doing his duty.

"The OPP Association supports OPP Provincial Const. Mike Walli who was carrying out his duties on August 20, 2022, when he responded to a call for a fail to remain vehicle collision in Orillia. As part of the OPP Association's support of PC Walli, we provide him with legal counsel and we look forward to a vigorous legal defence as the matter proceeds through the justice system," said OPPA President John Cerasuolo.

Const. Walli will make his first court appearance in Orillia on March 28.