Highway 11 Closed on Canada Day Due to Police Investigation Near Orillia
A major stretch of Highway 11 was shut down in both directions this Canada Day morning. The closure was due to an active police investigation near Severn Township, just north of Orillia. This highway is a key route for cottage country traffic.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) announced the closure shortly after 6:30 a.m. They blocked off Highway 11 between Severn River Road and Coopers Falls Road, and again between Canning Road and Graham Road.
By 7:12 a.m., the OPP urged motorists in the area to shelter in place, stay inside their vehicles, and keep doors locked. Officers later clarified the closures also extended to Southwood Road and Cox Road earlier in the investigation.
Heavy Police Presence and Canine Search Underway
Officials have not released specifics about the incident. However, eyewitness reports and social media posts noted armed officers, police dogs, and helicopters in the area. Several residents said they were asked by police not to remain outside on their porches as the search continued.
By 9:36 a.m., the OPP confirmed that traffic in the northbound lanes had begun to move. At 10:08 a.m., they started removing vehicles from the closure area. Southbound traffic was expected to follow shortly. → Authorities expected southbound traffic to follow shortly.
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As of 11:00 a.m., Highway 11 remains closed, and the OPP continues to request that the public avoid the area and report any suspicious activity to police at 1-888-310-1122.
Canada Day Travel Disruptions
The closure affected a major route into Ontario’s cottage country on a holiday that typically sees heavy travel volumes. The OPP has not said when they will fully reopen the highway, and they urge drivers to monitor traffic reports or official police channels for updates.
This is a developing story, and more details will be provided as they become available.
Did the highway closure impact your Canada Day plans?
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More…
- https://www.orilliamatters.com/police-beat/police-investigation-shuts-down-both-sides-of-hwy-11-north-of-orillia-10886891
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/barrie/article/stretch-of-highway-11-closed-for-police-investigation
- https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/opp-asks-residents-to-avoid-area-of-hwy-11-tuesday-due-to-ongoing-investigation/article_1c8d196b-102a-438a-922b-467aa2fa2e0c.html
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