Snowy collision in Caledon led to alleged death threat and drug charges

Several drivers got stuck in a snowdrift last weekend in Caledon — and now one of them faces charges of assault, drug possession and uttering a death threat.

In a media release, the Caledon detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police said that around 4 p.m. on Sunday (Feb. 20), several vehicles were stuck in the area of Mayfield Road and Chinguacousy Road. Two drivers began arguing due to a minor collision. One driver threatened to shoot the other with a firearm located in the trunk of the vehicle.

The driver left the scene and was later located and arrested by officers. No firearm was found.

As a result of the police investigation, a 31-year-old from Etobicoke was charged with:

• Assault
• Possession of a Schedule I substance — Opioid
• Uttering threats — cause death or bodily harm
• Driving a vehicle with cannabis readily available

The accused, whose name was not released, is scheduled to appear in an Orangeville court in early May.

Caledon OPP said they responded to 55 collisions over a five-day span from Friday to yesterday (Feb. 18 to 22).

“Caledon OPP would like to remind motorists that the leading cause of collisions that occur during the winter months is poor driving, not poor driving conditions,” the detachment said in a media release. “Slow down, stay alert and stay in control — these simple steps will go a long way in reducing the number of winter weather-related collisions on our roads.

“In bad weather, if you do not need to travel, stay at home. If you do need to drive, adjust your driving accordingly. Allow extra time travelling to and from destinations and leave ample space between yourself and the car in front of you. If you experience trouble or involved in a collision, if possible, park your vehicle well off the roadway and stay in vehicle until help arrives.”