Change in Crown case pauses trucker trial

The court didn't hear any evidence Monday as the trial of a Thunder Bay transport driver charged in connection with a collision that killed an off-duty Ontario Provincial Police officer three years ago entered its second week.

Superior Court Justice Edward Gareau was scheduled to hear testimony from more Crown witnesses, but adjourned the case until Tuesday morning after hearing from the lawyers.

Defence counsel Kate Brindley said she had been notified this morning of a significant change in the Crown's case and received a number late disclosures.

She indicated that she had been given a significant piece of new disclosure on the Friday before the start of the trial and other disclosure this morning.

She said the Crown's position changes the landscape of the case and she would like some time to consider the developments.

Gary Tyska has pleaded not guilty to criminal negligence causing death, stemming from the Feb 13, 2014, crash on Highway 17 near Blind River.

Const. David Dennie, 36, lost his life in the collision which occurred at 6:50 a.m.

Since the trial began last week, the court heard testimony from six witnesses, including people who happened on the collision scene and an Ottawa human fatigue specialist.

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