Barrie police have charged a driver with impaired driving after the individual was found passed out behind the wheel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) three times the legal limit. The incident occurred on June 26, 2026, according to a news release from the Barrie Police Service.
Driver Found Unconscious in Vehicle
Officers responded to a report of a vehicle stopped in the middle of the road with the driver apparently unconscious. Upon arrival, police found the driver unresponsive in the driver's seat. The vehicle was running and in gear.
The driver was awakened by officers and subsequently failed a roadside sobriety test. A breathalyzer test later revealed a BAC of 240 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, three times the legal limit of 80 milligrams.
Charges and Legal Consequences
The driver, whose name has not been released, has been charged with impaired driving and driving with a BAC over the legal limit. The vehicle was impounded, and the driver's license was suspended for 90 days, as per Ontario's administrative driver's license suspension (ADLS) program.
According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, first-time impaired driving offenders face a minimum fine of $1,000, a one-year license suspension, and mandatory participation in an education or treatment program. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties, including longer suspensions, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and possible jail time.
Police Remind Public of Dangers
Barrie Police are reminding the public of the dangers of impaired driving. “Impaired driving is a serious and preventable crime that endangers everyone on the road,” said Constable Sarah Smith in a statement. “We are grateful that no one was injured in this incident, but it could have easily ended in tragedy.”
Police urge anyone who suspects impaired driving to call 911 immediately. The investigation is ongoing.
