North Bay Man Arrested After High-Speed Police Chase, Gun Seized

UPDATE: A 21-year-old man from North Bay has been arrested following a dramatic high-speed chase involving York Regional Police on July 17, 2023. The suspect, identified as Dakota Drury, was allegedly fleeing police while impaired and carrying a loaded firearm.

The incident began on July 10 when officers first spotted a red Nissan Qashqai speeding near Woodbine Avenue and Riverglen Drive in Georgina. Police attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Drury fled at a high rate of speed. According to a police statement, “The vehicle was heading in the opposite direction,” prompting officers to pursue.

Just a week later, on July 17, the same vehicle was sighted again by police in the area of Woodbine Avenue and Boyers Road. A police helicopter joined the chase, tracking the suspect as he raced southbound on Highway 404, running multiple red lights and even driving against traffic. Footage released by authorities shows sparks flying from the damaged vehicle as it continued its reckless journey into the Town of Aurora.

Despite police deploying a tire deflation device, the vehicle remained mobile on all four rims until officers made intentional contact to safely bring it to a halt. Drury was taken into custody without injury, but a subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded handgun and evidence of drug impairment at the time of arrest.

York Regional Police confirmed that Drury was out on bail for unrelated charges when these offenses occurred. He faces an array of serious charges, including:
– Flight from Peace Officer (x2)
– Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle (x2)
– Fail to Comply with Undertaking (x3)
– Impaired by Drug
– Careless Storage of a Firearm
– Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
– Possession of Prohibited or Restricted Firearm (x2)

Authorities have emphasized the dangerous nature of this incident, highlighting the potential threat to public safety posed by Drury’s actions. “In the interest of public safety, officers made intentional contact to stop the vehicle,” a police spokesperson stated.

As investigations continue, the community remains on alert as police remind residents of the risks involved with impaired and reckless driving. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of public safety and law enforcement’s commitment to keeping the roads secure.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.