Vehicle of interest identified in storm-water pond oil spill that resulted in loss of fish and wildlife

Police released this image of a vehicle of interest linked to an oil spill in a storm-water pond in Bolton, Ont. (OPP)

Provincial police have identified a vehicle of interest as they continue to investigate a mysterious oil spill in a storm-water pond in Bolton.

Caledon OPP, along with the Town of Caledon and the Ministry of Environment, launched the probe after the spill was discovered in the area of Coleraine Drive and George Bolton Parkway earlier this month.

Investigators encourage the driver of the vehicle of interest, along with any passengers or anyone with intel about the vehicle, to come forward.

Officials say the contaminated area has been secured and confirm the spill is contained within the storm-water pond. So far, the cause of the spill remains undetermined.

Caledon Mayor Annette Groves issued a statement on Friday, asking the public to avoid the area as the active investigation continues at the site.

“We will continue to keep the public informed as more details become available,” Groves finished.

Residents can expect increased traffic through the area.

No timeline has been provided for when the cleanup or investigation will be complete.

Storm-water ponds are designed to collect rain and melted snow runoff from roads and nearby developments, often containing pollutants. Oil spills can potentially overwhelm these systems, posing environmental risks.

The Town has said there is no indication of any health or water quality impacts to nearby properties, adding the spill had, however, 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‚” the Town’s website noted.