A man wanted by South Simcoe Police has been arrested in Barrie following a dangerous attempt to evade officers that involved ramming police vehicles. Barrie police say officers located the suspect Tuesday after receiving reports he had been seen earlier near Mulcaster Street. Although he initially left the area, police later found him at his Barrie residence sitting in a vehicle with another person.
When officers attempted a traffic stop, the driver allegedly fled, striking two police cruisers during the escape. The pursuit ended shortly afterward, and the man was taken into custody without further incident. Police report only minor damage to the cruisers and no injuries to officers.
Investigators say the driver showed signs of impairment, including the smell of alcohol and delayed responses. A subsequent search uncovered suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, and baggies containing unidentified pills. A breath test later confirmed alcohol impairment.
The accused is facing multiple charges, including impaired driving, fleeing police, dangerous operation, assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, drug trafficking-related offences, and driving while prohibited. The passenger was detained and later released without conditions. Police say the investigation is ongoing.