Grenville OPP arrest, charge man following search that lasted several hours

An OPP cruiser is pictured in this undated photo. (Source: OPP Central Region)

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has arrested a wanted man who was believed to be armed following a search that lasted several hours on Thursday in the area of Maitland in Grenville County.

He was located near County Road 2 and was safely taken into custody shortly after 6 p.m. Police say he was unarmed.

The search started when members of the OPP observed a “wanted, high-risk” man running away from a residence police were at as they were responding to an unrelated matter, according to the OPP.

“The OPP Emergency Response Team, Tactics and Rescue Unit, Canine Unit, and an OPP helicopter all converged to the area to assist with the search. Officers also utilized a Remotely Piloted Aerial System (drone) as part of the search efforts,” the OPP said in an update Friday.

Police asked the public in the area to remain indoors. They asked people to avoid the area.

“Police are on the look-out for a white male, scruffy blonde hair and scruffy beard, wearing long red shorts or red pants and a white shirt,” the OPP said in a post on X Thursday.

In an update, police said the man changed clothing, issuing a new description.

“Please be on the look-out for a male wearing a white shirt and brown shorts,” reads the update.

The OPP said in another update that officers contacted school officials to ensure impacted buses were redirected, and to discuss safety concerns.

Officers also asked residents to not approach the man and to call 9-1-1 if seen.

No injuries were reported.

The 30-year-old man was charged with resist peace officer, flight from peace officer, operation while prohibited and take motor vehicle without consent.

He appeared in court Friday.