Man killed in 403 crash was 'passionate' about improving Hamilton
Brampton man faces charges including driving while over the legal alcohol limit
"This is an incredibly tragic and sad incident," said city spokesman Mike Kirkopoulos. "Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies go out to Ryan's family, friends, colleagues and loved ones."
A Ford F-150 pickup truck was seen going the wrong way on the eastbound 403 near Waterdown Road around 3:30 a.m. Saturday. The truck struck a silver Nissan head-on, killing Powless, who was driving the Nissan, the Ontario Provincial Police said.
A 20-year-old Etobicoke woman riding in the Nissan was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
'Passionate about our city'
The news has come as a sad shock to the close-knit team of about 40 bylaw officers, said Kelly Barnett, coordinator of the city of Hamilton's Municipal Bylaw Enforcement efforts.
Powless saw his work as a way to help Hamilton improve, according to Barnett.
"He wanted to help people. Wherever he needed to step up, he did. He was really passionate about our city. He took a look a lot of pride in trying to improve conditions in whatever neighbourhood he worked in," said Barnett.
"He was a truly terrific officer."
Charges for wrong-way driver
The driver of the Ford truck, who was its sole occupant, received minor injuries. The 35-year-old man from Brampton, Ont., was arrested at scene.
He faces seven charges including impaired driving causing death, impaired driving causing bodily harm, driving while over the legal alcohol limit, dangerous driving and possession of under 30 grams of marijuana.
The OPP is asking any witnesses who may have seen the Ford prior to the collision to call the investigating officer Tim Schulz at the Burlington OPP detachment at 905-681-2511.