'Significant risk' — Couches on tracks, arson along Windsor rail line prompt police investigation

Someone deliberately set the tracks on fire, threw rocks at passing trains, according to police.

A series of incidents involving debris, vandalism and arson on Windsor railway tracks has prompted a police investigation. The Windsor Police Service said investigators have responded to 12 incidents involving railway infrastructure since January. Most incidents occurred between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. along the rail corridor between George Avenue and Pillette Road.

In many cases, large objects, including couches, mattresses and other debris, were intentionally placed on the tracks. Tampering with railway tracks or setting fires near railway infrastructure can have devastating consequences These incidents caused significant delays for passengers and created a serious risk of derailment, or an emergency stop that could have resulted in serious injury or death, police said. Investigators highlighted two incidents as part of the ongoing investigation.

On April 5, two suspects were captured on video throwing rocks at a moving VIA Rail train, shattering one of its windows, police said. Then, shortly before midnight on June 26, someone deliberately set a fire on the railway tracks. “Tampering with railway tracks or setting fires near railway infrastructure can have devastating consequences,” said Insp.

Rob Wilson in a news release. “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.” Police are asking anyone with information about the incidents, including dashcam, security camera or cellphone video, to contact the Windsor Police Service at 519-255-6700, ext. 4000.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at catchcrooks.com.