KAWARTHA LAKES-Kawartha 411 News has learned that the grandson of a Durham Police officer killed by a drunk driver in 2002 has been charged with impaired driving.
Officer Terry Ryan, former President of the Durham Regional Police Association and Chair of the Police Association of Ontario was involved in a two vehicle car crash that was alcohol-related on May 30th 2002. He passed away on May 31, 2002. He was on his way home from a police function in the Durham Region at the time.
On Sunday February 2, 2020 Ryan’s grandson was allegedly involved in a single vehicle crash in Lindsay. Police say a vehicle travelling on Colborne Street West in Lindsay struck a parked vehicle, before veering across the street and becoming stuck in a snowbank just after 6am.
The driver of vehicle was watched by witnesses until a Kawartha Lakes Police Service officer arrived to investigate according to police. The officer spoke with the driver and arrested him after determining the driver was impaired.
Charged with operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs, and operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration over 0.08, is 19-year-old Liam Ryan of Lindsay.
There’s an award given out in the name of his grandfather every year. The Terry Ryan Memorial award is given annually by Mothers Against Drunk Driving.The award recognizes the significant contribution of police services in helping to reduce impaired driving. It is presented annually to recognize exemplary service by a police officer or team in reducing the incidence of impaired driving.
The news comes after a number of people have been charged locally for impaired driving. Peterborough County OPP charged five people over the weekend. Police say they have a zero tolerance policy.
“The Peterborough County OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead when consuming alcohol or drugs. Use a designated driver, cab, public transit, or stay overnight. Any amount of alcohol or drugs can impact your ability to make sound judgements”. said PC Joe Ayotte in a press release.
