Vandalism appears to have been the cause of the collapse of dugouts at Greenwood Park in Petrolia but there won’t be any criminal charges laid in the incident.

Lambton OPP are investigating after two dugouts the diamond south of the Petrolia Lion’s hall collapsed May 13.

Sources have told The Independent that children were on the roof of the dugouts and at least one of the concrete dugouts collapsed. Lambton OPP confirmed one person was injured in the incident which occurred around 11:30 pm that night.

The dugouts have been removed and two wooden benches remain.
Petrolia’s Chief Administrative Officer, Rick Charlebois, in an email to The Independent, said last week “We have no comment, as it is an active police investigation.

“It is true that there are benches in place of the dugouts currently, and as we can obtain quotes and more detailed information regarding replacement options we will be coming to council with a report for their consideration.”
Minutes of the Petrolia Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee in Monday night’s council package show committee members were also concerned, asking questions about the collapse of the dugouts as well.

“Nicole Gould asked about the rumour regarding the dugout collapse at Greenoowd Diamond #2,” the minutes state “and inquired about the proper inspection for the dugouts.”

The minutes continued saying Dave Menzies, the director of parks, recreation and facilities, told the group about the incident saying “vandalism occurred causing the dugout collapse.

“Dave (Menzies) explained that dugouts and playground equipment is inspected on a monthly basis and that new more modern dugouts will be installed in the near future.”

Lambton OPP Const. Jamie Bydeley, in an email to The Independent said Wednesday, the incident had been investigated and no criminal charges will be laid.