Windsor police have been dealing with an increase in dangerous incidents along railway tracks in the city.
Since January of this year, investigators have been examining at least 12 instances of vandalism and arson along tracks.
Most of the incidents have been in the rail corridor between George Avenue and Pillette Road, occurring between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m.
In the majority of cases, large objects such as furniture and other debris were placed on the tracks on purpose, causing delays for passengers and freight and increasing the risk of derailment, or a sudden stop that could cause serious or fatal injury.
On April 5, two people were seen throwing stones at a passing VIA Rail train, shattering one of the windows. Shortly before midnight on June 26, police say someone set a fire on the tracks.
"Tampering with railway tracks or setting fires near railway infrastructure can have devastating consequences," said Windsor Police Inspector of Patrol Support Rob Wilson. "Interfering with the safe operation of trains could lead to a derailment, creating a significant risk of serious injury or death to passengers, railway employees, emergency responders, and members of the public."
Anyone who may have witnessed any of the incidents, or who may have dashcam or security camera footage to share, is asked to call Windsor police at (519) 255-6700, extension 4000. Anonymous tips may be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (519) 258-TIPS (8477) to be eligible for a cash reward.
