High-speed chase ends with the arrests of two men

A stolen car evaded police after driving at 100 km/h in a 40 km/h zone on Monday, before being abandoned on Gaslight Crescent in the Ellesmere and Morningside Roads area, police report.

The driver and a passenger abandoned the vehicle and ran, but police say their dog services found the suspects shortly afterwards in a field at Morningside Road and Highway 401.

Last year, Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation reported more than 5,000 people were caught going 50 km/h or more above the speed limit.

Most high-speed chases pass the average driver before they realize what’s happening before them, says Sgt. Tim Burrows of Toronto’s traffic services.

“As a driver, the best thing people can do is, naturally, pay attention to your surroundings,” Burrows says. “Once you observe the lights of an emergency vehicle, the law is clear.”

Under the Highway Traffic Act, if you see an emergency vehicle sounding its sirens, you have to pull over to the side of the road and bring your car to a standstill.

If you are a pedestrian witnessing a high-speed pursuit, Burrows says you should try to stay away from the road and well back if possible.

“There is no telling what can actually happen so you need to pay attention,” Burrows says. “You cannot under any circumstances, attempt to cross the street since you really can’t judge the speed of vehicle.”

Mark Hillyard, 26, has been charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle and two counts of operation while disqualified. He was also charged with non-related offences.

Darryl MacDonald, 24, has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime and possession of burglar’s tools. He was also charged for violating his probation.

About this article

By: Lauren Hummel
Posted: Nov 26 2009 10:33 am
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Filed under: News