Passed-out man in Barrie parking lot charged with impaired driving

Police allegedly seized suspected drugs during an arrest just before Christmas on Dec. 25, 2024, in Barrie, Ont. (Barrie Police Service)

Police say a potential tragedy was averted when officers found an allegedly impaired man asleep in the driver’s seat of his car in a Barrie parking lot following a concerned call from the public.

Officers arrived at the industrial plaza parking lot on Anne Street, south of Tiffin Street, and had to make several attempts to wake the passed-out man, who was subsequently arrested for impaired driving.

• Download the CTV News app free for local alerts
• Get the latest local updates and breaking news sent to your inbox

Police say the officers seized suspected cocaine found on the accused and in the vehicle during his arrest, resulting in drug-related charges.

“The responding officers wish to thank the concerned citizen who contacted police and reported this driver as it is evident from the investigation that followed, that this male was in no condition to drive,” the Barrie Police Service stated in a release.

“This call for service is an excellent example of the positive results that can occur when the public and police work together,” the service concluded.

The man from Barrie, who police noted turned 51 the day of his arrest, is scheduled to appear in court to answer to the charges later next month.