Emergency Services respond after two males pulled from the Scugog River 

On June 17, 2021 at 12:30pm emergency services were called to Riveria Park in Lindsay after two 17-year-old fisherman ended up in the Scugog River while attempting to recover a fishing pole which had fallen into the water. One of the males entered the water to recover the fishing pole, he was not a strong swimmer and soon began to struggle in the water. A second male entered the water to assist his friend but also began to struggle. A witness in the park observed that the males were struggling and jumped in and pulled the males to shore where, they were assisted by another witness who is a nurse. One of the males was transported to the Ross Memorial Hospital by Kawartha Lakes Paramedics and the second male attended the hospital on his own at a later time for assessment. 

Both males are now reported to be in good condition.  

Impaired driver arrested 

On June 17, 2021 at 5:43pm the Kawartha Lakes Police Service attended the area of Kent Street West and McLaughlin Road for a possible impaired driver. A concerned citizen contacted police after observing a vehicle cross the centre line while travelling on Highway 7. The vehicle crossed into the oncoming lane multiple times and struck a passing vehicle. The officer conducted an investigation and the driver was arrested. 25-year-old Kaitlynn Semple of Lindsay is charged with operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration 80 plus. The accused will appear at the Ontario Court of Justice, located at 440 Kent Street West on July 29, 2021.  

Impaired driver arrested 

On June 17, 2021 at 7:42pm the Kawartha Lakes Police Service attended the area of Russell Street West and Lindsay Street South for a possible impaired driver. Officers were called after a witness had observed the driver of a vehicle slumped over the wheel while stopped at the intersection. While speaking with the driver the officer observed signs of impairment, after further investigation the driver was arrested. 51-year-old D Scott Ripka of Lindsay is charged with operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs and failure or refusal to comply with demand. The accused will appear at the Ontario Court of Justice, located at 440 Kent Street West in Lindsay on July 29, 2021.  

Despite the best efforts of officers, they can’t be everywhere at one time. This is why receiving tips from the public about impaired drivers is so crucial to helping the Kawartha Lakes Police Service keep local roads safe for motorists and pedestrians. If you suspect you see and impaired driver, please let us know by calling 911.