Collision Reported on Highway 17 Near Hawk Lake

KENORA, ON — An individual from the Kenora area is facing multiple charges after a collision involving two commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) on Highway 17 near Hawk Lake.

Police say that on Friday, January 30, 2026, just after 1:00 a.m., members of the Ontario Provincial Police in Kenoraresponded to a reported collision between two CMVs. No serious injuries were reported. Police allege one driver failed to remain at the scene and travelled east toward Dryden.

Driver Located by Dryden OPP

Police say members of the Dryden OPP later located the CMV matching the description. Investigators allege the driver:

• failed to remain after the collision, and

• did not possess a valid driver’s licence (police allege the licence was suspended).

Charges Laid

As a result, William Audette, 41, of Dryden, has been charged under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act with:

• Driving while suspended (s. 53(1))

• Careless driving (s. 130(1))

• Fail to remain (s. 200(1)(a))

Police add the accused was held for bail court due to a recent number of “driving while suspended” charges.

The charges have not been proven in court. The accused is presumed innocent.

What These Charges Mean

Fail to Remain: What Police Must Prove

Under the Act, a driver involved in a collision must remain (or immediately return), render assistance, and provide identifying and insurance information when requested.

Careless Driving

This allegation relates to driving “without due care and attention” or “without reasonable consideration for other persons.”

Driving While Suspended

This charge applies when a person drives on a highway while their driver’s licence is under suspension.

Potential Penalties on Conviction

Penalties can vary based on prior record, circumstances, and what the court finds proven.

Driving While Suspended (HTA 53(1))

On conviction, the Act provides:

• Fine: $1,000 to $5,000 for a first offence; $2,000 to $5,000 for subsequent offences

• Possible jail: up to 6 months

• Additional licence suspension: 6 months, consecutive to any existing suspension

Careless Driving (HTA 130(1))

On conviction under s.130(1), the Act provides:

• Fine: $400 to $2,000

• Possible jail: up to 6 months

• Possible licence suspension: up to 2 years

Fail to Remain (HTA 200(1)(a))

On conviction, the Act provides:

• Fine: $400 to $2,000

• Possible jail: up to 6 months

• Possible licence suspension: up to 2 years

Demerit Points

Ontario also assigns demerit points upon conviction for certain offences, including:

• 6 points for careless driving

• 7 points for failing to remain at the scene of a collision