BRAMPTON, ON – A 21-year-old Brampton man is facing multiple charges after allegedly engaging in dangerous driving during a car meet at Trinity Common Mall last Friday evening, Peel Regional Police announced. Officers from 21 Division responded to reports of large gatherings and dangerous driving at the popular shopping plaza on Friday, August 16, at approximately 10 p.m. Upon arrival, police observed a white Dodge Challenger being driven dangerously and immediately attempted to stop the vehicle.The situation quickly escalated when the driver attempted to evade police. However, officers were able to contain the vehicle, preventing its escape and avoiding what could have become a high-speed pursuit through the busy Brampton area.
Once the vehicle was stopped, the drama continued as the driver abandoned the car and attempted to flee on foot. After a brief foot pursuit, officers successfully apprehended the suspect and took him into custody.
Ajaypreet Sidhu of Brampton now faces eight charges in connection with the incident, including Race a Motor Vehicle, Unnecessary Noise, No Muffler, Obstruct Plate, Drive Motor Vehicle – Not by Emission Regulation, Fail to Surrender a License, Public Nuisance, and Fleeing from a Peace Officer. Following his arrest, Sidhu was released on an undertaking with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date. As part of the enforcement action, his driver’s license has been suspended and his vehicle has been impounded.
The incident highlights growing concerns about unauthorized car meets and street racing activities in the Greater Toronto Area. Trinity Common Mall, like many large parking areas, has become a gathering spot for automotive enthusiasts, but police emphasize that dangerous and unlawful activities will not be tolerated.In response to ongoing issues at various plaza locations, Peel Regional Police have announced they will continue conducting regular patrols across the region, including at Trinity Common Mall. Residents may notice an increased police presence at times as officers work to ensure public safety in these areas.
Police are taking a firm stance against unlawful activities associated with these gatherings, including large unsanctioned gatherings, dangerous driving, public drinking, use of fireworks, and excessive noise. The comprehensive list of charges in this case demonstrates the serious approach law enforcement is taking toward such incidents.The successful containment of the vehicle without a high-speed pursuit reflects police training and protocols designed to prioritize public safety while still apprehending suspects. High-speed chases through populated areas can pose significant risks to innocent bystanders, making the officers’ tactical approach particularly noteworthy.
Car meet culture has grown significantly in recent years, particularly among younger drivers who gather to showcase modified vehicles and share their passion for automotive culture. However, when these gatherings involve illegal activities such as street racing, excessive noise, or dangerous driving, they draw police attention and enforcement action.The charges against Sidhu cover a range of vehicle-related offenses, from racing and noise violations to emission regulation compliance and license requirements. The variety of charges suggests a pattern of multiple violations that extend beyond just the dangerous driving incident itself.
The Flight From Peace Officer charge is particularly serious, as it reflects the suspect’s decision to actively evade law enforcement rather than cooperate with the traffic stop. This charge alone can carry significant penalties and demonstrates the escalation of what might have started as a traffic violation.Local residents and business owners in the Trinity Common Mall area have expressed concerns about these types of gatherings, citing noise, safety, and property damage issues. The increased police patrols are partly in response to these community concerns and complaints.Peel Regional Police are encouraging anyone with information about this specific incident or similar activities to come forward. The public can contact 21 Division directly at (905) 453-2121, extension 2133, or provide anonymous tips through Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca.
This case serves as a reminder that while car enthusiasm and automotive culture can be enjoyed legally and safely, activities that put public safety at risk will face serious legal consequences. The multiple charges and penalties imposed in this case send a clear message about the potential costs of dangerous driving behavior.
As the investigation continues and the case moves through the court system, it will likely serve as a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, particularly as police departments across the GTA continue to address the challenges posed by unauthorized car meets and street racing activities.