Here are the stories Hometown News readers were following closely this week:
Upper Rideau Lake drowning investigation
Coverage of the fatal canoe incident on Upper Rideau Lake near Westport drew the highest readership of the week. The tragedy prompted an outpouring of community support and renewed conversations about water safety as the summer boating season begins.
Fatal Highway 15 collision near Lombardy
Readers continued to seek updates on the May 29 collision involving an ambulance returning to base and two other vehicles on Highway 15 near Lombardy. The crash claimed the life of a 34-year-old Elizabethtown-Kitley man, and later a child, and left several others injured, including two paramedics.
Four charged in Pride vandalism investigation
Police updates related to the vandalism of the Pride crosswalk and Town Hall bandshell in Smiths Falls remained among the week’s most-read stories. Four young adults have now been charged in connection with the incident.
Election sign dispute sparks debate in Smiths Falls
A story examining mayoral candidate Nate Morris’s refusal to remove election signs erected before Labour Day generated significant reader interest. The issue raised questions about the enforcement of the town’s election sign policy and political expression during the municipal campaign.
RMEO Father’s Day fundraiser returns
A feature on the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario’s upcoming Father’s Day fundraiser, including a 60,000-pound caboose pull led by local strongman Tim Norris, rounded out the week’s top stories. The annual event combines family activities with fundraising efforts in support of the museum.
Together, the week’s most-read stories reflected the mix of breaking news, community issues and local events that continue to resonate with readers across the region.
