OPP investigating break and enters at two cottages near Barry’s Bay

Cottagers in the area of Killaloe, near Barry’s Bay, Ont., are being asked to stay extra vigilant after a break in at a local cottage.

The Ontario Provincial Police detachment in Killaloe received a call just before 1:30 p.m. on May 5 from cottagers on Lake Clear Road in the Township of Bonnechere Valley. OPP are investigating a break-and-enter situation that possibly took place over the winter when the cottage was closed for the season.

Between last October 2022 and May 4, 2023, unknown people entered the cottage and storage units and stole two all-terrain vehicles. Various miscellaneous items were missing as well. The two stolen ATVs are described as an orange 2008 Yamaha Z45 and a red and black 2007 Yamaha YFZ. OPP have yet to determine the dollar value of the stolen goods.

The OPP Forensic Identification Services are assisting with the investigation and have collected forensic evidence from the crime scene. So far, no suspects or witnesses have been identified. More details from FIS and OPP are forthcoming.

Last week, another break-and-enter in the area was reported on Simpson Pit Road, just west of Killaloe and about 30 minutes away from the break in at Lake Clear. OPP do not believe that the two incidents are connected, but they are encouraging local cottagers to check on their properties. The affected cottages did not have exterior cameras, but OPP are advising cottagers to invest in surveillance systems to enhance security and protection.

“Our best advice for cottagers is to install cameras over the winter and to fortify buildings where possible,” says Catherine Yarmel with Killaloe OPP. “But it’s also good to have a watchful, helpful neighbour to look after your cottage while you’re away, and to tell local residents when you are leaving.” The OPP also urge cottagers not to leave valuables on their properties over the winter, and to do mid-winter checks of their cottages. You can also sign up for the OPP’s SafeGuard Ontario Property Security Program.

Provincial police are asking anyone with knowledge of this crime to come forward. You can contact the Killaloe OPP Detachment at 613-757-2600, or Crime Stoppers, anonymously, at 1-800-222-TIPS, or www.valleytips.ca. You could receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.