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| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | One person has been arrested and a handgun has been seized following an overnight police incident that led to a shelter-in-place order in the Sharbot Lake area. Members of the Frontenac OPP  responded to a residence in Sharbot Lake  shortly before midnight on Monday, January 26. Police say a male fled the scene before officers arrived. It was later learned that the individual was armed with a handgun, prompting police to issue a shelter-in-place order for the surrounding area as a safety precaution. After several hours, the male was located at another residence and was arrested after the shelter-in-place order was put into effect . He was safely taken into custody, and a handgun was seized. A 35-year-old man has been charged with: Pointing a firearm Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose Possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm Carrying a concealed weapon Using a firearm while committing an offence Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm Possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order Tampering with the serial number of a firearm Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 The accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear for a bail hearing later today. Police have not released the name of the accused in order to protect the identity of the victim. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Last Updated: 6:00 am January 26th, 2026 Update #2: Most schools under the limestone district school board are also closed with the exception of; NAEC, GREC, Land O Lakes and Clarendon Central Update #1: The Hastings Prince Edward District School Board has closed all schools in Belleville, Quinte West, and Prince Edward County, while the Algonquin & Lake District School Board has closed all schools within its district All schools under the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB), the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland & Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNC) and the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), will be closed to students and staff due to hazardous weather conditions on Monday, January 26th, 2026. | Updates on closures will be posted to the top of the article once available | What’s Closed All schools, buildings, and worksites are closed, including: Education Centres Before and After School programs Full-day child care centres The closures apply for the full day on Monday. Snowfall Totals and Conditions

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A snowfall warning is in effect for the region as a winter system moves in, bringing heavy snow expected through tonight and into Monday morning. Snow has already begun falling, marking the start of a storm that is expected to deliver 15 to 30 centimetres of accumulation before it tapers off. Periods of heavier snowfall may lead to reduced visibility, particularly later today and overnight. Northeasterly winds gusting 40 to 50 km/h could cause localized blowing and drifting snow, especially in open and exposed areas. Conditions are expected to gradually improve Monday morning as snowfall eases to lighter snow or flurries from west to east. Even so, the Monday morning commute could be affected, particularly on untreated roads. Drivers and pedestrians should be prepared for challenging travel conditions, with roads and walkways becoming increasingly difficult to navigate as snow continues to accumulate. Allow extra time for travel and adjust plans where possible. Please share this notice to help spread the word, and remember to stay safe as conditions worsen. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 If you would like to advertise with us, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Update: As per information received this morning, the suspect was apprehended, and police presence was cleared at 2:22 am. The OPP thanks everyone for their tips and cooperation

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Residents across Belleville  experienced a significant power outage yesterday , leaving quite a few households  without electricity and heat during a period of extreme cold. The outage created a challenging, stressful situation as families worked to stay warm and safe while temperatures continued to drop. The power failure was caused by broken power lines in the Bell Boulevard and Sidney Street area , which disrupted service to surrounding neighbourhoods. The damage required on-site repairs and extended restoration efforts. As the outage stretched into the evening, residents were reminded just how critical electricity is during cold weather, especially for home heating, lighting, and essential household operations like cooking. With overnight wind chills around –40°C , the loss of power posed serious concerns for comfort and safety across the community. According to Elexicon Energy , crews worked steadily through the evening and late into the night to repair the damaged infrastructure. Power was restored to most residents by midnight , bringing much-needed relief as Belleville faced dangerously cold overnight temperatures. The incident highlights both the vulnerability of communities during severe winter weather and the importance of rapid response when infrastructure is damaged. It also serves as a reminder for residents to be prepared for winter outages and to check in on neighbours who may need extra support during extreme cold. Restoration efforts helped ensure that many residents were able to remain warm and safe as Belleville endured one of the coldest nights of the season. Let's take a moment to thank the Elexicon hydro crews for their hard work in the cold to restore power to our community. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 If you would like to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A 20-year-old Belleville man is facing several charges after Belleville Police responded to a motor vehicle collision in the downtown area early Friday morning. Police say that on January 23rd at approximately 2:53 a.m., officers were called to a report of a crash. When they arrived, they found a vehicle that had collided with a snowplow. Witnesses told police the male driver exited the vehicle and fled the scene on foot following the collision.

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Residents across the region are being urged to take extra precautions as extremely cold and windy conditions move in, with dangerous temperatures expected to begin this evening and continue through Sunday morning. Weather officials say wind chill values are expected to remain between -35°C and -40°C overnight , creating an elevated risk to health. Frostbite can occur within minutes on exposed skin, and hypothermia remains a serious concern, especially for anyone spending extended time outside. Extreme Cold Puts Vulnerable People at Risk Officials warn that extreme cold conditions can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk. This includes seniors, young children, people without adequate shelter, and anyone who may be travelling or stranded outdoors for long periods of time. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, dress appropriately, and limit outdoor exposure whenever possible. Safety Reminder for Outdoor Workers Those working outdoors are urged to take extra precautions, including taking regularly scheduled breaks to warm up. Multiple warm layers, insulated gloves, proper winter footwear, and face protection are strongly recommended, as even short periods of exposure can become dangerous quickly in wind chill values approaching -40. 🏠 Precautions Homeowners Can Take Extreme temperatures can also create problems at home, including frozen pipes, heating issues, and potential power outages. Homeowners are encouraged to keep indoor temperatures steady, even overnight, and to allow warm air to circulate in areas where pipes are located, especially under sinks and along exterior walls. It’s also a good idea to check basements, crawlspaces, garages, and utility rooms for exposed plumbing and insulate pipes where needed. In some cases, leaving a faucet dripping slightly overnight can help prevent freezing. Residents should also disconnect garden hoses and ensure outdoor taps are properly shut off when possible. Preparing for outages is another important step. Keeping phones charged, having flashlights and extra batteries ready, and ensuring blankets, food, water, and medications are accessible can make a big difference if power is interrupted. Drivers are also encouraged to keep their vehicles fuelled up and stocked with a winter roadside kit. What a Cold Warning Means Cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill conditions create an elevated risk to health, including frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are reminded to check on neighbours, friends, and family, especially anyone who may be vulnerable, and bring pets indoors whenever possible. Please share this warning to help keep others informed on the extreme cold as it approaches and to remind others to check on their loved ones during temperatures like these. Stay warm and stay safe. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Police say Highway 401 westbound is blocked in all lanes near Odessa due to a jack-knifed tractor-trailer. No injuries have been reported, and tow efforts are currently underway to remove the vehicle and reopen the highway. Motorists are being asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes, as significant delays are expected until the scene is cleared. Please share this notice so others know to avoid going west on Highway 401. Small Town News will provide updates as more information becomes available. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Three people are facing charges following a drug seizure in Belleville. The OPP East Region Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), with assistance from the Belleville Police Service, began an investigation in late 2025 into suspected drug trafficking in the Deseronto, Shannonville and Belleville area. On Tuesday, January 20 , officers with the CSCU, assisted by the Belleville Police Tactical Unit , executed a search warrant at a residence on Moira Street East . Police say three individuals were arrested at the scene . During the search, officers reportedly seized: Approximately 11.5 grams of suspected cocaine Nearly $700 in cash Items police say are typically associated with drug trafficking As a result of the investigation, three Belleville residents , two men, Christopher HILL aged 41  and Tyler HILL aged 36 , along with a 38-year-old woman , Vanessa MEESTERS have each been charged with possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking . One of the males has also been charged with possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 . All three individuals were released from custody and are scheduled to appear in court in March . See Something Suspicious? Here’s How You Can Help Police remind residents that community tips play an important role in investigations , especially when it comes to ongoing issues like drug trafficking and other crime in the region. If you witness a crime in progress, suspicious activity, or have information that could help police: Call 911 immediately  if there is an emergency or immediate danger For non-emergencies, contact your local police service or OPP at 1-888-310-1122 Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers Even small details like vehicle descriptions, locations, times, or repeated suspicious activity can help investigators build a clearer picture for authorities. Together, we can make our community safer To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Northumberland detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) released information today  regarding charges laid following a traffic stop in Campbellford earlier this month. Police report that on January 15, 2026 , at approximately 2:50 p.m. , officers on patrol attempted a traffic stop after identifying the driver as a prohibited driver . OPP state that both the driver and passenger, who were reported as wanted at the time , fled on foot  from police. Both individuals were located and taken into custody a short time later , with assistance from officers with the Peterborough-Northumberland Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU) . Following the arrest, police conducted a search which reportedly resulted in the seizure of a quantity of suspected methamphetamine , as well as ammunition . Charges Laid A 45-year-old male , Jeremy Richardson, of no fixed address , has been charged with: Flight from peace officer Fail to comply with probation order  (two counts) Operation while prohibited A 45-year-old female , Jennifer Bridges of no fixed address , has been charged with: Possession of Schedule I substance – Methamphetamine Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order Fail to comply with probation order Both accused were held in custody for bail and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg , according to police. Vehicle Impounded OPP report that the vehicle involved in the incident has been impounded for 45 days . Community Tip Information Northumberland OPP is reminding members of the public that anyone with information related to suspected unlawful activity can contact Crime Stoppers  by visiting stopcrimehere.ca  or calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) . Together, we can make our community safer To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A local couple is speaking out after they say Hyundai Canada has refused to honor recall-related support connected to the KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) recall , despite their 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe  showing symptoms consistent with serious engine trouble and the recall itself. The couple; Adam and Nicole , say they originally bought the SUV from Need a Car Trenton  and were thrilled with it at the start. “We were thrilled with the car,” they said. But that excitement didn’t last long. Warning Lights Appeared According to Adam and Nicole, roughly eight months into ownership , their Santa Fe suddenly displayed an engine light  and oil light . They say they pulled over and shut the vehicle off immediately  after the warning lights came on. Vehicle Was Towed to a Licensed Repair Facility in Early December Adam and Nicole say the vehicle was not driven further  after the warning lights appeared and was instead brought by tow to a licensed repair facility in Marmora  near the beginning of December. The couple says the issue has remained unresolved since that time as they continue working through warranty and coverage decisions. Licensed Repair Facility Confirmed Engine Knock and No Owner Fault The couple says the licensed repair facility in Marmora  inspected the vehicle and confirmed the presence of an engine knock , a symptom commonly associated with significant internal engine damage. They say the mechanic advised them there were no signs of driver error or neglect , and further indicated that oil maintenance appeared to be up to date , based on the inspection and available service information. According to the couple, the repair facility’s professional opinion was that the engine issue should be covered under warranty , which they believe makes the denial of recall-related support even more concerning. Third-Party Warranty Still Pending — and Lost Wages Have Added Up With Hyundai Canada allegedly declining recall-related coverage in their case, Adam and Nicole say they are now waiting on a third-party warranty provider  to determine whether repairs will be approved. They say the delays have already resulted in costs beyond repairs alone, including lost wages , due to missed work, appointments, and ongoing transportation disruption while the vehicle remains off the road. Couple Says Theta II Engine Lawsuits May Become the Next Step Adam and Nicole say the licensed repair facility advised them their Santa Fe has a Theta II engine , which the couple later learned has been connected to past engine-related class action lawsuits  and consumer complaints. They stress they do not want legal conflict, but if their third-party warranty claim is denied, they may have little choice but to explore legal options to recover costs — including repair expenses and lost wages . Couple Hoping Hyundai Canada Will Get in Touch and Make It Right Adam and Nicole say they are still hopeful the situation can be resolved without escalation. They say they are asking Hyundai Canada to review their case again and are hoping the company will reach out directly and make it right. Contact Information Adam and Nicole say they are also willing to speak with anyone who has experienced similar engine issues. 📞 Phone:  7056329018 📧 Email:   adam.briggscc@gmail.com Help Share Their Story Adam and Nicole are asking the community to help raise awareness. Please share this story so others are informed, and so the couple’s concerns are heard. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 If you would like to advertise with us, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Drivers are being asked to avoid the intersection of County Road 25 and County Road 27  in Cramahe  following a two-vehicle collision  involving a tractor-trailer and a passenger vehicle . Emergency services are currently on scene, and the area is closed to traffic  while crews respond. Motorists are urged to take an alternate route  and expect delays in the surrounding area. The closure was reported at approximately 12:45 p.m. Please share this notice with others so they know about the road closure in the area. This is a developing situation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6