74-Year-Old Charged After Refusing Breath Test in Elliot Lake

UPDATE: A 74-year-old resident of Elliot Lake faces serious charges after allegedly refusing to take a breath test during a traffic stop on Saturday, July 25, 2025. The incident unfolded around 7:00 p.m. on Highway 108, where officers from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) observed a grey pickup truck dangerously overtaking another vehicle.

During the stop, police determined that the driver, identified as Clayton Austen, had consumed alcohol. Following this, he was taken to the Elliot Lake detachment for further testing. Astonishingly, Austen reportedly refused to provide a suitable breath sample despite multiple requests from the officers.

As a result of his actions, Austen has been charged with failure or refusal to comply with demand. He is set to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on August 14, 2025. In addition to the charges, he has received a 90-day Administrative Drivers Licence Suspension, and his vehicle has been impounded for a period of seven days.

None of the allegations have been tested in court, and Austen is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the importance of complying with law enforcement measures regarding impaired driving.

Residents are urged to stay vigilant as authorities continue to enforce traffic laws rigorously. Updates will follow as the case progresses, and community members are encouraged to share this information to promote awareness.