PORT MAITLAND—Port Maitland has suffered another disrespect after an unknown person illegally dumped fuel off the side of the Esplanade parking lot into the Grand River. A witness, not named to protect anonymity, reported the incident to Haldimand OPP in the early hours of January 6, 2024.
“You can see him pull up on camera. He got out of the truck and you can see him pouring it in,” they said.
The entire crime took less than five minutes.
Fortunately, because of other unsavoury incidents at the pier – including but not limited to burying feces in the park during illegal overnight camping and urinating off of the pier – and at the insistence of neighbouring residents who have suffered repeatedly from trespassing and vandalism, the County previously installed an outdoor camera at the site, which the witness said should have recorded the event.
“I hope it was actually working,” they said. “It took a long time for the County to put the thing up, and I hope they catch this guy.”
OPP reported the incident to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks Spills Action Centre, who then contacted federal and municipal officials.
“Haldimand County staff attended the scene as soon as possible and shared photos and provided their observations,” said ministry spokesperson Gary Wheeler.
Based on witness reports, the ministry said the amount would be less than 25 litres, with no known impact to the environment. As of January 12, the ministry said “staff will be attending the site to inspect the spill and determine if any action from the municipality is required.”
“As the source originated from land owned by Haldimand County, they are considered the responsible party for any necessary remediation, unless the person who allegedly dumped the material is identified,” said Wheeler.
He did not comment on potential costs of cleanup.
Haldimand OPP did not respond to questions on status of the investigation.