Panhandler struck by vehicle on Highway 11

An Ontario Provincial Police vehicle with the front passenger door opened. (File Photo/Supplied/Ontario Provincial Police)

A pedestrian sustained non-life-threatening injuries after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 11 in North Bay, Ont., on Saturday morning, Ontario Provincial Police said.

The collision occurred at about 8:20 a.m. at the intersection of Highway 11 and Trout Lake Road, with OPP officers, alongside North Bay Fire and Emergency Services and paramedics responding.

Police said the individual was engaged in “roadside solicitation” at the time of the incident.

Investigation and response

“Initial investigation revealed that the pedestrian entered a live lane of traffic while vehicles had the right of way,” OPP said in a news release Sunday.

“The individual was struck by a pickup truck and was observed to have suffered a head injury before fleeing the scene.”

An OPP canine unit was deployed to locate the injured person, who was found shortly afterward at a nearby restaurant.

The individual was located and assessed by paramedics and taken to hospital for treatment for what police described as “non-life-threatening” injuries.

Police told CTV News that the investigation into the collision is ongoing.

Broader safety concerns

“This incident highlights ongoing public safety concerns related to roadside solicitation in high-traffic areas,” said police.

In response to these concerns, the OPP pointed to its Safer Streets Initiative, which was launched in 2024.

The program aims to mitigate the risks associated with panhandling at intersections through public education and by promoting safer alternatives to direct roadside giving.

While not always directly linked to homelessness, authorities said complex societal issues often surrounding such activities.

“The OPP supports coordinated responses to complex societal issues and continues to work with community and government partners to address the broader challenges faced by vulnerable individuals,” said police.

“The OPP is committed to keeping everyone safe, on the roads and in our communities.”