On September 10, 2013 at 8:44 a.m., the Guelph Police attended to the area of Paisley Road for the report of a hit and run collision. Investigation alleges that at 8:40 a.m., a twenty passenger Voyageur school bus was facing eastbound on Paisley Road stopped for the red traffic signal at Edinburgh Road North. At that time the bus was rear ended by a white Pontiac Grand Am that was also travelling eastbound on Paisley Road. The driver of that motor vehicle got out and after a brief verbal exchange with the bus driver, returned to his car and fled the area. The bus driver contacted police and provided the license plate number of the suspect vehicle and description of the driver.
The motor vehicle and driver were located by police at approximately 9:00 a.m. in the driveway of a residence on Paisley Road near Alma Street. The male driver was on the front porch and confronted the officer demanding that he leave the property. As the officer attempted to de-escalate the situation, the male struck him across the face with his fist. The man was subdued but continued to resist and spat in the officers’ face. Additional officers arrived and the male was apprehended without further incident.
A 41-year-old Guelph male has been charged with fail to stop after an accident, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, impaired operation of a motor vehicle (by drug), take auto without owners consent, assault police and drive under suspension. He was held in custody pending a bail hearing on September 11, 2013.
The school bus was occupied only by the driver at the time of the collision and no injuries were sustained as a result of the collision. The officer that was the victim of the assault did not suffer any lasting injury and continued on duty.
Guelph Police are seeking witnesses to this series of events and are asking any person(s) with information to contact Constable Dan MOSEY of the Traffic Services Unit at (519)824-1212 extension 7145. Anonymous tips can be left at CRIME STOPPERS 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitted online at www.crimestoppersguelphwellington.com.