By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Crime, Collisions, and Crackdowns: A Busy August for Halton Regional Police
August proved to be a demanding month for the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS), with a series of high-profile investigations, tragic collisions, and targeted enforcement campaigns unfolding across Burlington and Oakville.
Teen Assaulted in Burlington Garage
On August 6, a teenage girl was assaulted in her own garage near Headon Road and Deer Run Avenue in Burlington. The incident occurred around 2:50 p.m. when the victim returned home from a bike ride and was approached by an unknown man who asked for water. As she attempted to assist, the suspect forcefully grabbed her arm before fleeing in a white SUV, believed to be an older model GMC Acadia. The suspect is described as approximately 5’8” tall, medium build, medium-dark complexion, wearing dark clothing and a baseball cap. No injuries were reported. Police are urging residents with dash cam footage or information to contact the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau.
GO Train Indecent Act Prompts Public Appeal
In a separate incident, HRPS is seeking help identifying a man who committed an indecent act aboard a Lakeshore GO Train on April 26. Around 4:12 p.m., while traveling from Fairview Burlington Station to Toronto Union Station, the suspect reportedly masturbated over his pants while staring at a female passenger. He is described as a white male with a scruffy grey and brown beard, wearing a black beanie, blue jacket, grey hoodie, and sweatpants. The victim was not physically harmed. Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau.
Burlington Man Arrested in International Child Exploitation Case
On August 28, HRPS’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit, in collaboration with the RCMP and Philippine authorities, arrested 78-year-old Douglas Ridpath of Burlington. The investigation, which began in April, led to multiple charges including making and possessing child pornography, sexual assault, and indecent exposure involving minors. Ridpath remains in custody pending a bail hearing. Police believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
Fatal Motorcycle Collision in Burlington
Tragedy struck on August 25 when a 19-year-old motorcyclist from Waterdown was killed in a collision at the intersection of Kerns Road and Dundas Street. The crash occurred just before 8:52 p.m. when the eastbound motorcycle collided with a westbound Ford SUV attempting a left turn. Two other vehicles were damaged in the aftermath, though no other injuries were reported. The Collision Reconstruction Unit is leading the investigation and seeking witness accounts or dash cam footage.
Cyclist Dies Following Oakville Collision
A 67-year-old cyclist from Burlington succumbed to injuries sustained in an August 19 collision in Oakville. The incident occurred near Rebecca Street and Third Line when a hatchback driven by a 57-year-old Oakville woman attempted a left turn into the South Oakville Centre. The cyclist was critically injured and later died in hospital on August 22. The Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate and is requesting public assistance.
Commercial Vehicle Safety Blitz Nets Alarming Results
Between August 19 and 21, HRPS, alongside the OPP and Ministry of Transportation, conducted a three-day commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safety blitz across Halton Region. Of the 82 vehicles inspected, 36 were placed out of service—representing a 44% failure rate. Officers also seized six sets of license plates and issued 160 Provincial Offence Notices. The campaign highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and vehicle compliance. HRPS will participate in the North America-wide Brake Safety Week from August 24 to 30, focusing on CMV brake systems.
Community Urged to Stay Vigilant
As investigations continue and enforcement efforts ramp up, HRPS is reminding residents to remain alert, report suspicious activity, and prioritize safety—both online and on the road. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
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