Police stop two for speeding in school zone, one not wearing seatbelt

Ottawa police say they caught a couple drivers for driving at high speeds through a community safety zone in Orleans on Thursday.

Officers were stationed in a school zone in the Renaud Road area between 2:45 p.m. and 3:15 p.m.

They stopped two drivers and charged them.

It was a 40 km/h speed limit in a school zone. One driver was caught speeding at 74 km/h and the other driver at 62 km/h. The other driver was also found to not be wearing a seatbelt.

Police are reminding drivers to take extra care when travelling in school zones saying in a social media post to “slow down, stay alert, and watch for vulnerable road users”.

It was just earlier this week where Ottawa crossing guard, Peter Clark, was killed after being struck by a vehicle while on duty.

Police said Tuesday afternoon a 19-year-old was arrested, after they put out pleas for the public’s help finding a dark-coloured Ford F-150 believed to be involved in the serious hit-and-run.

The teen is facing a charge of accident resulting in death under the Criminal Code. 

“The Ottawa Police Service extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Peter Clark, who tragically lost his life while serving as a school crossing guard,” the press release reads. “Mr. Clark’s commitment to that responsibility reflects a service to the community that deserves our utmost respect and gratitude. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts are with the school community and all those affected.”

The public and officials alike were shocked by the incident and expressed their condolences on social media for Clark’s family.

As a result of the incident, City of Ottawa flags are flying at half-mast until sunset on the day of his memorial service.

With files from Natasha O’Neill.