A motorist accused by Barrie police of fleeing a traffic stop and nearly hitting pedestrians in the process is facing charges.
Police say an officer responded to a call around 8:30 Tuesday night about a possible impaired driver at the Wellington Street plaza. When an attempt was made to stop the motorist, police say the driver took off at a high rate of speed, nearly hitting pedestrians.
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Soon after, the officer saw the same pickup truck, and another attempt was made to pull it over. The vehicle fled toward a police cruiser, forcing the officer to make an evasive manoeuvre to avoid being struck. While fleeing, police said the truck narrowly missed pedestrians crossing the street.
Upon further investigation, police identified the driver, and the pickup truck was located around 9 a.m. Wednesday in a parking lot in the area of Ferndale Drive North and Tiffin Street.
"The officers secured and executed a warrant, which resulted in the arrest of the driver without further incident," police said in a news release.
A 35-year-old Barrie man was charged with flight from a peace officer and dangerous operation.
