Driver rams stolen vehicle into hydro pole before running
Posted Oct 15, 2025 11:11:55 AM.
Last Updated Oct 15, 2025 11:12:00 AM.
A hydro pole was “destroyed,” leaving people without power after a vehicle slammed into it on Tuesday afternoon.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to an incident on Oct. 14 just after 2:00 p.m. after getting calls that a vehicle had violently rammed into a hydro pole before the driver got out. It happened on County Road 2 near Silmser Road just east of Cornwall, Ont.
Officers on scene said evidence indicated the car left the roadway, struck the pole, completely shearing it off and left power lines hanging about a metre from the road. Witnesses said they saw a man get out of the vehicle and flee on foot.
At first, police wanted to make sure the driver was okay after the crash, but they then learned the vehicle was reported stolen, the press release notes.
OPP’s canine unit was engaged to search for the suspect, who was found with no serious injuries but was still sent to hospital.
As a result, police charged Richard Zeran, 56, of Cornwall with:
- Theft of a vehicle
- Dangerous operation
- Operation while prohibited under the Criminal Code
- Failing to remain at the scene of an accident
- Failing to report an accident
He was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 3.
Officers closed the highway for hours while conducting the investigation and clearing the scene.
