Niagara police officer accused of impaired driving, fleeing traffic stop before crash

Niagara police officer faces charges after fleeing traffic stop, crashing

Police in Niagara Region have charged one of their own officers with impaired driving, fleeing a traffic stop, and causing a collision. According to prosecutors, the incident unfolded around 8:20 p.m. on Thursday in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Officers responded to reports of an impaired driver in the area of Glendale Avenue and Taylor Road, attempting to stop a grey Dodge Ram pickup truck. The driver refused to pull over, prompting police to initiate a pursuit. However, the pursuit was halted for safety reasons.

Shortly after, the same pickup truck was involved in a crash with another vehicle, and the officer, identified as a 54-year-old man from Fort Erie, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. The suspect, who has been with the Niagara regional police force for 21 years, faces multiple charges including impaired operation of a conveyance, fleeing from a peace officer, and dangerous operation.

He has been suspended with pay pending an investigation. The Special Investigations Unit has also been involved due to the injuries sustained in the crash. No other injuries were reported in connection with this incident.