The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe that an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer committed criminal offences in relation to a shooting that occurred in August of 2022 in Orillia.
The SIU investigation found that on Aug. 20, 2022, OPP officers became involved in a pursuit with a pickup truck. In the area of Highway 11 and Sundial Drive, the pickup truck became involved in a collision. Both occupants from the pickup truck exited the vehicle.
Shortly after, one officer discharged his firearm and an 18-year-old man – one of the occupants – was struck. He was transported to hospital for treatment of a serious injury.
As a result of the SIU investigation, OPP Constable Michael Walli is facing the following charges under the Criminal Code:
- One count of criminal negligence causing bodily harm, contrary to s. 221;
- One count of careless use of firearm, contrary to s 86(1);
- One count of assault causing bodily harm, contrary to s 267(b); and
- One count of assault using a weapon, contrary to s. 267(a).
Cst. Walli is required to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at 700 Memorial Ave. in Orillia on March 28, 2023.
As the matter is before the courts, and in consideration of the fair trial interests of the accused, the SIU will not provide further comment on the investigation.
The OPP Association issued a statement of support of the officer.
“The OPP Association supports OPP Provincial Constable Mike Walli who was carrying out his duties on Aug. 20, 2022, when he responded to a call for a fail to remain vehicle collision in Orillia. As part of the OPP Association’s support of PC Walli, we provide him with legal counsel and we look forward to a vigorous legal defence as the matter proceeds through the justice system," notes the association's president, John Cerasuolo.
"We are mindful that the upcoming legal proceedings will be long and stressful for PC Walli and other OPPA members impacted by this incident. We encourage and urge all OPPA Members to reach out for professional and or peer mental health supports available by contacting 24/7 1-866-794-9117 or online at EncompasCare.ca.”
According to Bill Dickson, the OPP's manager of media relations, Const. Walli "has been assigned to modified duties pending the outcome of the court proceedings."
