Justin Veronneau, 18, of Hearst, Ont., made his first court appearance on June 24, 2026, charged with first-degree murder in the death of Ontario Provincial Police Const. Tarun Bali. The 29-year-old officer died on June 9 after being struck by a vehicle while on duty in northern Ontario.
Details of the incident
Const. Bali was a four-year veteran of the OPP, stationed in the James Bay area. According to police, the incident occurred during a traffic stop on Highway 11 near Hearst. The vehicle struck Bali before fleeing the scene. Veronneau was arrested shortly afterward and charged with first-degree murder.
"This is a tragic loss for our service and the community," said OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique in a statement. "Our thoughts remain with Const. Bali's family, friends, and colleagues."
Court proceedings
Veronneau appeared via video link from the Thunder Bay Jail. The court ordered him to remain in custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for July 8. The case has been adjourned to allow for disclosure of evidence.
Under the Criminal Code, a first-degree murder conviction carries an automatic life sentence with no parole eligibility for 25 years. Veronneau is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Community impact
Const. Bali's death marked the first line-of-duty fatality for the OPP in 2026. A funeral service was held on June 18 in his hometown of Brampton, attended by hundreds of officers and community members. The OPP has established a memorial fund in his honour.
"Const. Bali served with distinction and courage," said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. "We owe him and his family our deepest gratitude."
