Driver facing impaired driving and weapon charges after traffic stop in Garden River First Nation

A Sault Ste. Marie male is facing multiple charges after failing to stop for police in Garden River First Nation.

On October 9, 2025, Anishinabek Police Service (APS) officers received a call about a suspicious person in Garden River First Nation who was trying door handles on residences. At that time, officers were unable to locate the person or their motor vehicle.

Just before midnight on October 10, APS officers observed a vehicle matching the suspicious vehicle description from the prior evening driving on Sweet Grass Street. Officers activated their cruiser lights, however the driver did not stop and was later located travelling on Highway 17B. In order to protect public safety, a tandem stop was executed with assistance from Batchewana Police Service. Once stopped, the male driver refused to obey commands from police, was physically removed from the vehicle, then resisted arrest. The suspect was brought to the ground for officer safety where he continued to ignore multiple commands. He was successfully handcuffed and searched. A switchblade was located in the suspect’s pant pocket, and a search of the vehicle found an open box of beer and drug paraphernalia, both readily available to the driver.

A 41-year-old male from Sault Ste. Marie was charged with:

• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
• Flight from Peace Officer
• Dangerous Operation
• Operation While Impaired – Alcohol and Drugs
• Obstruct Peace Officer
• Driving While Under Suspension (x two counts)

He has since been released on an Undertaking.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact investigators at 705-946-4196. Anonymous information may also be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

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