Mysterious oil spill in storm-water pond under investigation

Police tape cordons off an area in this file image. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

A mysterious oil spill in a storm-water pond in Bolton is being investigated by provincial police, along with officials from the Town of Caledon and Ontario’s Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks.

Investigators have secured the area at Coleraine Drive and George Bolton Parkway for the probe. Police initially appealed to the public for information about the spill over the weekend. At that time, the contaminant was unknown.

Town officials say a contaminant sample was sent for analysis to ensure the safety of residents and revealed it was oil.

"There is currently no indication of any health or water quality impact to the nearby properties,“ the Town stated on its website Tuesday. ”The incident has resulted in the loss of fish and wildlife. The number of affected animals is unclear at this time, but the Town is working closely with a reputable agency for wildlife rescue and cleanup efforts."

Police say they are unable to confirm the cause of the spill, adding it is contained to the storm-water pond.

“Residents can expect to see an increased volume of traffic in the area,” Caledon OPP noted on Tuesday, adding the public is encouraged to avoid the area “until the situation is resolved.”

Police ask anyone who can provide information on the oil spill to contact the OPP or Crime Stoppers to leave an anonymous tip.