Pedestrians nearly struck by dangerous driver on K&P Trail

A witness observed a male driving a white SUV eastbound on the K&P Trail towards the gated entrance at Sydenham Road in Kingston’s west end at approximately 1:25 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 14, 2020.

The witness also observed the accused get out of the vehicle and then attempt to open the locked gate unsuccessfully, according to a release from Kingston Police, dated Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020. Police say the accused then attempted to turn his vehicle around on the narrow trail, however had difficulty doing so and nearly rolled the SUV over before speeding back down the trail westbound.

Another witness, who was walking her dogs on the trail, had to jump out of the way before nearly being struck by the speeding SUV, according to the release. Police say a horse and rider narrowly escaped being struck as well by the accused who was now driving towards Highway 401 on the trail.

Police responded to the area and, at approximately 1:50 p.m., observed the accused driving at a high rate of speed eastbound on Resource Road. Police, while attempting to catch up to the speeding vehicle, observed the accused nearly lose control of the SUV before turning onto Ventures Drive. According to the release, officers further observed the accused then attempt to turn southbound onto Centennial Drive while proceeding the wrong direction in the traffic circle at that intersection.

Police initiated a traffic stop and arrested the accused for dangerous operation of a conveyance. Further investigation revealed that there was a requirement to transport the accused to Kingston General Hospital to undergo a mental health assessment, according to the release. Police transported the accused to the hospital where he was later provided an appearance notice with a future court date.

A 57-year-old man from Toronto was charged with dangerous operation of a conveyance.