The new year is not off to a great start for a Gravenhurst man.
Just 15 minutes into New Year's Day, Bracebridge OPP officers, along with Gravenhurst firefighters, responded to reports of a vehicle that had left the roadway on Beiers Road in Gravenhurst and erupted in flames.
Nearby residents came out of their home and assisted one occupant, however the driver fled after the call to police was made.
Bracebridge OPP officers, with assistance from the OPP K-9 unit and the emergency response team searched the area but were unable to locate the driver.
An investigation ensued and police have charged 38-year-old Daniel Barnes of Gravenhurst with dangerous operation of a vehicle and failure to stop after an accident.
The accused is also charged with Highway Traffic Act and Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act offences, notes a media release from the OPP.
He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on Feb. 13, 2024 to answer to his charges.
