On the evening of November 20, 2025, a series of alarming reports regarding possible gunshots and trespassers on a property along Foster Road prompted a swift response from the Prince Edward County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

As officers arrived at the scene shortly before 11:00 p.m., they noticed a vehicle speeding away from the area. After a brief pursuit, the vehicle crashed into a ditch, and the driver fled on foot into the nearby woods. Inside the abandoned vehicle, officers discovered a troubling array of items: alcoholic beverages, ammunition, a spotlight, and an unsecured firearm.

The OPP quickly mobilized their Emergency Response Team, along with a Canine Unit and a Remotely Piloted Aerial System (drone), to locate the suspect. Their coordinated efforts paid off, leading to the arrest of a 20-year-old man identified as Seth Hill-Brant, a resident of Tyendinaga First Nation.

Hill-Brant now faces multiple serious charges, including operation while impaired by alcohol, operation with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08, and careless storage of a firearm. These charges reflect the OPP’s commitment to addressing impaired driving and ensuring firearms are stored safely—an issue that weighs heavily on public safety, particularly in rural communities where hunting is common.

Following his arrest, Hill-Brant was released from custody but is required to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Picton. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the legal consequences that can arise from impaired driving and the importance of responsible firearm ownership, especially during the hunting season.

The OPP is urging hunters and the general public in Ontario to remain vigilant about these issues. Impaired driving, trespassing, and improper firearm storage not only endanger the individual but also pose significant risks to the community at large. As the hunting season continues, it is crucial for all to be reminded of the safety protocols that ensure both personal and public safety.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining safety and order in Ontario’s rural regions. It underscores the need for responsible behaviour, particularly as communities come together to enjoy the outdoors during this time of year.