Ottawa Police were called to an unusual and concerning incident in the Barrhaven neighbourhood, where they intercepted a vehicle being driven by a 13-year-old child. The event occurred on the evening of January 9, 2026.
An Alarming Discovery on Barrhaven Streets
According to police reports, officers on patrol noticed a vehicle being operated in a manner that raised immediate suspicion. Upon conducting a traffic stop, they were stunned to find the driver was a 13-year-old who was not licensed to operate a motor vehicle under any circumstances. The child was reportedly on a mission to acquire candy when police intervened.
Police Response and Community Safety
The Ottawa Police Service swiftly took control of the situation, ensuring the safety of the young driver, any potential passengers, and the broader public. The vehicle was secured, and the juvenile was taken into custody without incident. While specific charges under the Highway Traffic Act and potentially the Youth Criminal Justice Act are being considered, the primary focus was on the child's welfare and determining the circumstances that led to this dangerous decision.
Authorities are investigating several critical questions, including how the child gained access to the vehicle and whether any adults were aware of the situation. The incident has sparked conversations about parental supervision and vehicle key security.
Broader Implications for Ottawa
This event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of community policing and the paramount importance of road safety. While statistically rare, incidents involving underage drivers pose a severe risk to everyone on the road. The Ottawa Police have used this opportunity to remind parents and guardians of their responsibility in safeguarding vehicle access and educating young people about the law.
The Barrhaven community, known as a family-oriented suburb, has reacted with a mix of shock and relief that the situation was resolved without a crash or injuries. The police's proactive work in identifying and stopping the vehicle is being credited with preventing a potential tragedy.
