Alleged driver charged in hit-and-run crash that claimed life of 14-year-old pedestrian
A 35-year-old man has been charged in connection with a hit-and-run that claimed the life of Dominik Empey earlier this month.
According to Norfolk County OPP, at approximately 5:24 p.m. on Dec. 6, police entered into an investigation after a 14-year-old pedestrian was struck by a vehicle while walking with a friend on Fairground Road in Cultus, and the driver fled the scene.
The victim was later identified as 14-year-old Dominik Empey of Cultus.
In an update from OPP on Monday, after executing a search warrant at a residence located on Norfolk County Road 28 in Langton, investigators discovered and seized the involved vehicle, confirming the identity of the driver.
Members of the Norfolk County OPP Crime Unit took one individual into custody without incident.
As a result of the investigation, 35-year-old Nicholas Burtch of Norfolk County has been charged with fail to stop at accident resulting in death for his alleged involvement.
A memorial dedicated to 14-year-old Dominik Empey, who was struck and killed by a vehicle, is seen in Cultus, Ont. on Dec. 11, 2023. (Gerry Dewan/CTV News London) The accused was detained for the purpose of appearing at a bail hearing.
In a statement to CTV News London, Dominik's mother Christine Empey said, "We are sad and angry about the loss of Dominik but do not wish harm on the individual that did this."
In the meantime, momentos continue to be added to the memorial along Fairground Road where Dominik was struck and killed. The momentos speak to his passion for cars and motorcycles, and also include energy drinks, a country music CD and symbols of horses.
A public funeral service to celebrate Dominik's life will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Verhoeve Funeral Home Chapel in Langton.
“The OPP would like to express its appreciation to the public for contributing valuable information during the investigation,” police said in a statement.
— With files from CTV News London's Gerry Dewan
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
![](https://www.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.6974667.1721766198!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_800/image.jpg)
Pennsylvania state police commissioner reveals stunning details about Trump shooting
A local law enforcement commissioner revealed during a House Homeland Security hearing on Tuesday stunning new details about the security failures that led to the near assassination of Donald Trump, raising more questions for the embattled U.S. Secret Service.
Laws that could get Canadians in trouble in tourism hotspots
There are some laws in popular tourist destinations around the world that could land Canadian travellers in mild-to-serious trouble if they're not careful. Don't let these local laws land you in hot water during your next vacation abroad.
Polar bear at Calgary Zoo died by drowning following 'crushing' injury
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has revealed the cause of death for polar bear Baffin last week.
Clip resurfaces of Vance criticizing Harris for being 'childless,' testing Trump's new running mate
Comments Donald Trump’s running mate JD Vance made in 2021 questioning Vice President Kamala Harris’ leadership because she did not have biological children have resurfaced, testing the young conservative senator in his early days campaigning as part of the Republicans' presidential ticket.
Jasper evacuees forced into B.C. to flee fires told to make U-turn to Alberta for aid
Thousands of wildfire evacuees forced from Jasper National Park into British Columbia along smoke-choked mountain roads Monday night were directed Tuesday to make a wide U-turn and head home if they needed a place to stay.
'Stars are aligning' for Bank of Canada rate cut: economists
The Bank of Canada is expected to deliver a dose of interest rate relief Wednesday when economists and market watchers predict the central bank will cut its overnight lending rate.
Trudeau hand-picking candidate in Montreal byelection riles aspiring contenders
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to hand-pick a candidate for a riding in an upcoming Montreal byelection isn't being well-received by three aspiring contenders who spent months campaigning only to be shunted aside.
In their own words: Wildfire evacuees recount leaving Jasper
Thousands of residents and visitors were ordered to leave Jasper, Alta., overnight as wildfires burned inside the national park.
Edmonton gas station employee found guilty of terrorism charges in the U.K.
An Edmonton man has been convicted of multiple charges under the Terrorism Act in the United Kingdom.