An Aurora man is facing charges after Durham Regional Police say a Toyota sedan was driven through a busy playground, splash pad and pedestrian paths at Rotary Park in Ajax.
The Ajax park driving arrest followed reports of dangerous driving at approximately 6:25 p.m. on Saturday, July 18. Police said the public areas were occupied by pedestrians, including young children, when the vehicle entered the park.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
Ajax Park Driving Arrest Began at Rotary Park
Members of the Durham Regional Police West Division responded to Rotary Park at 177 Lake Driveway West after receiving reports of a white Toyota sedan being driven dangerously.
Investigators allege that the vehicle travelled through the playground, splash pad and walking paths while people were using the waterfront park.
Police later located the sedan near Westney Road South and Bayly Street West. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but police allege that the driver failed to stop and fled.
The police release did not indicate whether officers initiated a pursuit or provide an estimated speed for the Toyota.
Vehicle Returned to Ajax Waterfront
Police said the same vehicle returned to the Rotary Park area a short time later.
The sedan was allegedly driven along a pedestrian bridge on the Waterfront Trail before leaving the area again.
Officers subsequently found the Toyota near Harwood Avenue South and Bayly Street East.
Police attempted to prevent the driver from leaving. Investigators allege that the driver tried to evade officers and collided with an unrelated GMC SUV before being taken into custody.
No injuries were reported to police among park visitors, the occupants of the GMC SUV, responding officers or the accused.
The police release did not provide information about the amount of damage to either vehicle.
Aurora Man Faces Two Charges
Durham Regional Police identified the accused as 23-year-old Ismail Abrahimzada of Aurora.
He has been charged with:
- Dangerous operation
- Failing to stop for police
Police said the accused was held for a bail hearing. The charges and allegations have not been proven in court.
A dangerous-operation charge does not represent a finding that the accused is guilty. Evidence must be considered through the court process.
Police Seek Video and Witnesses
Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant cellphone, surveillance or dash-camera footage to contact Constable Smith of the Durham Regional Police West Division.
Information can be provided by calling 1-888-579-1520, extension 1901.
Anonymous information can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or 8477. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
Police have not indicated whether additional charges are being considered or explained why the vehicle allegedly entered the pedestrian areas.
The Ajax park driving arrest remains under investigation. Anyone with footage showing the Toyota in Rotary Park, on the Waterfront Trail or near the reported intersections is asked to contact police.
