Man arrested after nearly striking pedestrians and fleeing officers: police

Barrie Police cruiser in Barrie, Ont.

Police have charged a 35-year-old man after a dangerous driving incident earlier this week in Barrie.

Officials say they were called to a Wellington Street West plaza shortly after 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, for a report of a possible impaired driver.

When an officer arrived and attempted to stop the suspected vehicle, the driver reportedly fled, nearly striking pedestrians.

Shortly after, the same pickup truck was spotted again. Police attempted another traffic stop, but the driver sped toward the police cruiser, “forcing the officer to make an evasive manoeuvre to avoid being struck,” said police.

The release states that the vehicle drove off and pedestrians crossing the street were once again narrowly missed.

After an investigation, officers identified the driver and arrested him on Wednesday, morning in a parking lot near Ferndale Drive North and Tiffin Street.

The Barrie man has been charged with flight from a peace officer and dangerous operation.