A Durham Regional Police logo is shown in Bowmanville, Ont., on Feb. 28, 2023. The Canadian Press/Doug Ives
Police have laid charges against a man accused of driving through a crowded playground in Ajax, Ont., earlier this month.
Durham Regional Police say officers were called to Rotary Park on Lake Driveway West shortly before 6:30 p.m. on July 18 after receiving reports of a white Toyota sedan being driven dangerously through the park.
“The suspect vehicle drove through the playground, splash pad, and walking paths, which were filled with pedestrians, including young children,” police said in a July 27 release.
Police later located the vehicle about three kilometres from the park and attempted to stop it, but the driver allegedly fled.
A short time later, investigators say the suspect returned to the park area and drove across a pedestrian bridge on the Waterfront Trail before fleeing again.
Police say officers located the suspect elsewhere in Ajax and made a second attempt to stop the vehicle. Investigators allege the driver then crashed into another vehicle while trying to evade police.
“The suspect made efforts to evade police, resulting in the suspect vehicle colliding with an unrelated GMC SUV, before officers took the suspect into custody,” police said.
No injuries were reported.
Ismail Abrahimzada, 23, of Aurora, Ont., has been charged with dangerous operation and failure to stop for police. He was held for a bail hearing.
