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Impaired driving charges laid after vehicle hits traffic signs, utility pole

A witness reported an erratic, speeding driver
20220526 OPP cruiser
OPP file photo

One person is facing charges after a single-vehicle crash early Saturday.

A witness called 911 to report seeing a speeding, erratic driver who had struck several traffic signs at around 1:45 a.m. in the area of Pim and Queen streets.

Another call soon came in to report a collision in the 800 block of Queen Street East.

When officers arrived, they found a vehicle that had driven over a curb and struck a utility pole.

“Upon speaking with the driver, officers developed grounds to believe their ability to operate a motor vehicle was impaired by alcohol,” said police in a news release.

The officers say the driver refused to provide a breath sample.

Chris Martin, 54, has been charged with:

  • Operation While Impaired – Drug and/or Alcohol
  • Dangerous Operation
  • Refusal to Comply with Demand
  • Fail to Notify Change of Address – Licence (under the Highway Traffic Act)
  • Novice Driver – B.A.C. Above Zero (under the Highway Traffic Act)
  • Novice Driver – Refuse to Provide Breath Sample (under the Highway Traffic Act)

None of the allegations have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.