FROM: Corporate Communications
DATE: January 19, 2026
COORDINATED POLICE RESPONSE TRACKS DOWN SUSPECT, RESULTING IN ARREST AND MULTIPLE CHARGES
On January 17, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m., South Simcoe Police (SSP) officers observed a black Ford Edge SUV being operated with expired licence plates near Innisfil Beach Road and 20th Sideroad in the Town of Innisfil. Officers attempted a traffic stop; however, the driver failed to stop and fled at a high rate of speed. For public safety reasons, the pursuit was terminated. A second attempt to stop the same vehicle was made a short time later, and once again the driver failed to stop for police.
The vehicle was later located abandoned near Reid Avenue and Fern Road in the Town of Innisfil. Officers secured the area after observing fresh footprints in the snow leading into a nearby wooded area. The canine unit and the police drone were deployed to assist with the search. With reports from the public, officers narrowed the search near Belle Aire Beach Park. The SSP drone located the suspect on the ice, and for safety reasons, officers monitored him remotely until he came off the ice.
As a result, a 54-year-old male from Innisfil was arrested. The accused was prohibited from operating a motor vehicle Canada-wide and was charged with the following Criminal Code offences, in addition to with several Highway Traffic Act violations:
• Flight from police – two counts
• Dangerous Operation – two counts
• Take motor vehicle without consent
• Operation while prohibited – two counts
The accused was held for a bail hearing.
Through coordinated police work and public assistance, officers quickly brought the matter to a successful conclusion, with no injuries to members of the public or police. The South Simcoe Police Service wishes to thank the public for their assistance and recognizes the coordinated efforts of patrol officers, communications, canine, and drone operators.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact South Simcoe Police at 905-775-3311 or 705-436-2141. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit online at www.crimestopperssdm.com. Being anonymous, you will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.
video of the drone footage and the arrest:
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Media Contact: Samah Othman, Corporate Communications Specialist
Email: samah.othman@southsimcoepolice.ca
