A 33-year-old Norfolk County resident is now facing three charges following a serious collision in Waterford earlier this month that left another driver with potentially life-altering injuries.
As previously reported by NorfolkToday.ca, Norfolk County OPP responded to a two-vehicle collision at Thompson Road East and Duncombe Road on Monday, October 5, where one of the vehicles caught fire. The driver of the SUV was pulled from the burning vehicle by a bystander, while the driver of the other vehicle was transported by air ambulance to a trauma centre.
Police have now identified the accused as 33-year-old Robert Weerdenburg of Norfolk County.
According to the OPP, both vehicles were travelling along Thompson Road East when the SUV struck the rear of the passenger vehicle. Officers conducted a roadside sobriety test while speaking with the SUV driver, leading to an arrest.
Weerdenburg has been charged with operation while impaired with a blood alcohol concentration of 80 milligrams or more, operation causing bodily harm, and dangerous operation causing bodily harm.
He is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Simcoe on Tuesday, November 17, 2026.
The charges have not been proven in court.
The collision prompted a road closure lasting several hours as emergency crews responded and police investigated. The OPP continue to remind motorists to plan ahead, arrange for a designated driver or find another safe way home rather than risk driving while impaired.
