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Fleeing driver stopped by cops, firearms seized

Upon activating their emergency lights to investigate further, the pick-up truck and the sport utility vehicle (SUV) fled westbound on Levac Road
20190310 opp cruiser OPP
Courtesy OPP.

A Garson man faces numerous gun offenses after being tracked down by OPP officers last week.

On November 29, at 1:55 a.m., while on patrol, members of the Nipissing West Detachment of the OPP saw two suspicious vehicles parked in a residential area in Sturgeon Falls.

Upon activating their emergency lights to investigate further, the pick-up truck and the sport utility vehicle fled westbound on Levac Road. Officers stopped the chase shortly thereafter.

A short time later, the SUV was seen on Beaudry Road and officers stopped the vehicle on Highway 17 in Verner..

Joseph Astles, 23, from Garson was arrested and charged with:

  • Unauthorized possession of a firearm
  • Possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order
  • Possession of ammunition contrary to a prohibition order
  • Flight from a peace officer

The pick-up truck wasn't found and is described as a Chevrolet or GMC and grey or beige in colour. Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding this incident, to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.  

Astles was released on a promise to appear and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice on January 2, in Sturgeon Falls.