A 22-year-old man has been charged after allegedly operating a jet ski dangerously on Lake Simcoe, leading to a collision that injured two people, according to Barrie police.
Incident details
Police responded to reports of a jet ski driving erratically near the Barrie shoreline on the afternoon of June 25. Witnesses described the vessel speeding and making sharp turns close to other boats and swimmers. The jet ski then collided with a small boat, throwing two occupants into the water. Both victims, a 34-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman, were rescued by nearby boaters and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The operator of the jet ski, a resident of Barrie, was arrested at the scene. He has been charged with dangerous operation of a vessel causing bodily harm, contrary to the Criminal Code, and operating a vessel without a license under the Canada Shipping Act. He was released on a promise to appear in court on August 15.
Police statement
“This incident highlights the serious consequences of reckless behaviour on the water,” said Constable Sarah Thompson of the Barrie Police Service Marine Unit. “We urge all operators to follow safety rules and respect others on the lake.” Police continue to investigate and ask anyone with information to contact them.
The jet ski was seized for examination. Authorities remind the public that operating any vessel dangerously is a criminal offence and can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
