2 Durham police officers charged in fatal Hwy. 401 wrong-way crash: SIU

Two Durham police officers have been charged in connection with a tragic multi-vehicle collision last spring that resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including two grandparents and their infant grandchild. The incident occurred following a police chase of a suspect driving the wrong way on Canada’s busiest highway, the Ontario’s police watchdog announced on Friday.

Sgt. Richard Flynn and Const. Brandon Hamilton are facing three counts each of criminal negligence causing death and two counts each of criminal negligence causing bodily harm. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) disclosed that both officers are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Oshawa on Feb. 13.

Durham Regional Police Chief Peter Moreira addressed the media, stating that both officers have been suspended with pay pending the outcome of the case. He mentioned that an internal investigation of the conduct of DRPS members involved in the incident and a review of police internal procedures will be conducted in accordance with the law.

Lawyers for the officers, Lawrence Gridin and Sandy Khehra, released a statement asserting that their clients’ intentions were to save lives by alerting motorists and attempting to stop the suspect. They emphasized that the blame for the tragic outcome lies with the suspect, not the police. Both lawyers expressed their plans to challenge the charges in court.

The pursuit on April 29, 2024, in Whitby, Ont., led to the deaths of two grandparents visiting from India, their infant grandchild, and the 21-year-old robbery suspect being pursued. The decision to engage in a high-speed chase into oncoming traffic on Highway 401 has sparked controversy, with experts questioning the necessity of such actions.

Former SIU director Howard Morton commented on the charges, indicating that the pursuit appeared unnecessary and raised concerns about the officers’ decision-making. He stressed the importance of limiting high-speed chases to situations where it is absolutely essential.

Despite differing opinions on the matter, Moreira emphasized the need to await the justice system’s determination of the officers’ culpability. He expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragic collision and acknowledged the profound impact it has had on the community.

As the case unfolds, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victims and ensuring accountability for those involved in the pursuit that led to the devastating outcome. The SIU’s independent investigation aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the collision and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.