A 48-year-old resident of Courtice is facing a litany of serious charges following a police investigation into separate road rage incidents that occurred across the Durham Region. The investigation, spearheaded by the Durham Regional Police Service’s Gun and Gang Unit, began in February 2026 after reports surfaced of a motorist brandishing a firearm during disputes with other drivers.
Armed Altercations on Durham Roads
According to investigators, the suspect was involved in two distinct road rage confrontations in February. In both instances, it was reported that a man pointed a firearm at other motorists during heated exchanges on the road. These “temper tantrums,” as described by authorities, escalated from mere traffic disputes to life-threatening situations involving illegal weaponry.
Following weeks of investigative work, police were able to identify a suspect and locate a vehicle of interest. On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the Gun and Gang Unit, with the assistance of the Tactical Support Unit, executed a search warrant at a private residence in the community of Courtice, located within Clarington.
Seizure of Prohibited Weapons and Stolen Property
The search of the property led to the discovery of a firearm equipped with a prohibited over-capacity magazine. Furthermore, the SUV allegedly used during the road rage incidents was found on the premises. Upon further inspection, officers confirmed that the vehicle was stolen and had been “re-vinned”—a process where the original Vehicle Identification Number is replaced to hide the car’s stolen status.
The suspect, identified as Le Var Shamari Lewin, was found to be in violation of three separate existing firearm prohibition orders at the time of his arrest.
Legal Consequences and Charges
Lewin now faces a total of nine charges, including:
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Eight counts related to weapons offences (including possession of a prohibited device).
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One count of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
The accused was held for a bail hearing. Police are continuing to investigate and are asking anyone with additional information regarding these incidents or the suspect to contact the Durham Regional Gun and Gang Unit. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of escalating traffic disputes and the ongoing efforts by regional police to remove illegal firearms from the streets of Oshawa, Whitby, and the surrounding areas.
