A 23-year-old Aurora man is facing charges after a vehicle was driven through a busy Ajax waterfront park, crossing its playground, splash pad and walking paths while they were filled with pedestrians, including young children.
Durham Regional Police said officers from West Division were called to Rotary Park at 177 Lake Driveway West at approximately 6:25 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, after reports of a white Toyota sedan being driven dangerously through the park.
What police say happened
According to police, the vehicle drove through the park's playground, splash pad and walking paths, all of which were occupied by pedestrians at the time, among them young children.
Officers located the Toyota in the area of Westney Road South and Bayly Street West and attempted to stop it, but the driver failed to stop and fled from police.
A short time later, according to police, the vehicle returned to the park area and drove along a pedestrian bridge on the Waterfront Trail before fleeing again.
Police found the sedan a second time at Harwood Avenue South and Bayly Street East, where officers tried to block it from leaving. Police say the driver made efforts to evade officers, and the Toyota collided with an unrelated GMC SUV before the suspect was taken into custody.
No injuries were reported to police.
Charges laid
Ismail Abrahimzada, 23, of Aurora, is charged with dangerous operation and fail to stop for police.
The allegations have not been proven in court. The information released by police reflects facts gathered during an ongoing investigation.
Police appeal for footage
Investigators are asking anyone with cellphone, dashcam or surveillance footage, or any other information about the incident, to contact Const. Smith of West Division at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 1901.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
