-UPDATE #1- COLLISION SENDS OFFICER TO HOSPITAL

(Accused Identified)

(ELGIN COUNTY, ON) - Elgin OPP investigating a collision that sent on-duty officer to hospital with serious injuries.

On July 20, 2025, at 10:45 am, a member of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Highway Safety division (HSD), observed a suspicious vehicle travelling on Highway 3 in Elgin County, at which time a traffic stop was initiated. 

During the investigation, the driver of the vehicle fled the scene, striking the officer.

As a result, members of the Elgin County OPP and Medavie-Elgin EMS were dispatched to the scene to assist.

The officer was transported to hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

Highway 3 was closed between Centennial Avenue and First Avenue as a result.

The driver of the suspect vehicle was later located by members of the Elgin OPP and taken into custody.

As a result, Darren HAMDEN a 40-year-old of London, has been charged under the Criminal Code with:

• Dangerous Operation causing bodily harm
• Flight from peace officer
• Resist Peace Officer
• Assault with intent to resist arrest
• Personation with intent to avoid arrest, prosecution or obstruct justice (Identity fraud)
• Failure to comply with release order - other than to attend court (two counts)

The accused was held for bail.