THUNDER BAY – July 29, 2025 | NetNewsLedger Regional News – Two individuals from Thunder Bay are facing impaired driving charges following a pair of late-night single-vehicle collisions in the region, according to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Thunder Bay and Shabaqua Detachments.
First Collision: East Arrow Lake Road, Suomi Area
At approximately 9:57 p.m. on July 28, officers were dispatched to a single motor vehicle crash on East Arrow Lake Road, just outside the Village of Suomi.
Following an investigation at the scene, officers determined that the driver had been consuming alcohol. The individual was arrested and transported to the detachment for further testing.
As a result, Donald HARRIS, 67, of Thunder Bay has been charged with:
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Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
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Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
Harris was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay on September 10, 2025.
Second Collision: Highway 527, Unorganized Thunder Bay District
Just hours later, at approximately 12:22 a.m. on July 29, OPP officers responded to another single-vehicle collision—this time on Highway 527 in the Unorganized District of Thunder Bay.
After conducting roadside assessments, officers again determined alcohol impairment. The driver was arrested and brought to the detachment for additional testing.
Crystal RANTA, 33, of Thunder Bay was charged with:
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Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
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Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
Ranta was also released from custody and will appear in Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay on September 10, 2025.
Public Urged to Report Impaired Driving
The OPP continues to emphasize that impaired driving is a serious criminal offence that poses risks to all road users. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers:
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In emergencies: Call 911
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To report dangerous or impaired driving: Call 1-888-310-1122
