Hamilton police pulled over a teenage driver on Tuesday after clocking him at 147 km/h on Centennial Parkway, more than double the posted speed limit. When asked why he was driving so fast, the teen told officers he was on his way to the mall before it closed.
The traffic stop occurred around 8:30 p.m. on April 21, 2026. Police said the 17-year-old driver was behind the wheel of a sedan when they observed him speeding excessively. Officers estimated the speed limit on that stretch of road is 60 km/h.
Teen's explanation surprises police
According to police reports, the teen appeared anxious when pulled over. He claimed he did not realize how fast he was going and was simply trying to get to the mall in time. Police noted that the mall was several kilometers away and would have closed soon after the stop.
“This is an extreme case of speeding that puts everyone at risk,” said Constable Sarah Jones of the Hamilton Police Service. “No trip to the mall is worth endangering lives.”
Consequences and charges
The teen was issued a summons for stunt driving and speeding. His driver's license was suspended for 30 days, and the vehicle was impounded for two weeks. Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, stunt driving carries a minimum fine of $2,000 and a possible jail sentence.
Police also reminded the public that Centennial Parkway has seen multiple speeding-related incidents in recent months. They urged drivers to obey speed limits and plan their trips accordingly.
The teen is scheduled to appear in court in June. His name has not been released due to his age.
