An OPP patrol boat was stolen early Wednesday morning from the marina in Port Stanley and set on fire, according to officials.
Elgin OPP Const. Troy Carlson says the boat was taken around 2:45 a.m., and then seen on the rock break wall around sunrise on fire.
As a result, the 24 ft. Sea Swirl Inboard Outboard police boat was completely destroyed – damage is estimated to be $85,000.
“Our marine unit is now out of operation which basically puts people’s lives in jeopardy,” Carlson says.
Police are continuing their investigation and have no suspects at this time.
Carlson says the closest emergency response by water is now Long Point, Ont. raising concerns about public safety.
A temporary police boat is being arranged from OPP headquarters, and officials hope it will be in the water before the long weekend.
