OPP arrest two for impaired driving in separate overnight Midland incidents

This undated file image shows a police officer holding a roadside screening test that registered a fail. (Source: OPP/X)

A pair of drivers are facing multiple impaired driving related counts after provincial police responded to two separate incidents in Midland late Saturday night.

According to Southern Georgian Bay OPP, the first involved a driver fleeing the scene of a crash at Hugel Avenue and Queen Street. They were found by the responding officers shortly thereafter.

Police say the driver displayed signs of impairment and failed a roadside breath test. The driver was arrested and police confirmed that additional breath testing indicated alcohol impairment.

The 55-year-old from Midland was charged with impaired operation, impaired operation with a blood alcohol concentration exceeding 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres (over 80), dangerous operation and failing to stop at a stop sign.

The accused was released and is scheduled for a May 21st court appearance.

Several hours later, the Southern Georgian Bay detachment says officers were called to a disturbance on Hugel Avenue that involved several intoxicated people.

Police say the responding officers cleared the scene and remained present due to safety concerns.

Moments later, police say a vehicle was seen travelling at a high rate of speed with erratic movements.

When the vehicle was stopped, the driver allegedly showed signs of impairment. He was arrested and police confirm that breath testing indicated alcohol impairment.

The 22-year-old Tiny Township man was charged with impaired operation, over 80, dangerous operation, driving with an open liquor container, and having a blood alcohol concentration above zero as a novice driver.

He was released and is scheduled for a May 28 court appearance.

“The OPP reminds motorists that impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of serious injury and death on Ontario roadways,” said Const. Aaron Coulter from Southern Georgian Bay OPP in a news release. “Members of the public are urged to call 911 if they observe a suspected impaired driver.”