Prince Edward OPP are reminding hunters and the public about the legal consequences of impaired driving, trespassing, and improper firearm storage. A Tyendinaga man has been charged with drunk driving and a firearms offence.

Seth Hill-Brant, 20, has been charged with operating a vehicle while impaired with a blood alcohol concentration over 80; and careless storage of a firearm.

On Thursday, November 20 just before 11:00 p.m., Prince Edward OPP responded to reports of trespassers and possible gunshots on a Foster Road property.

Officers arrived to find a vehicle travelling at high rate of speed. Moments later, it crashed into a ditch. The driver fled on foot into a wooded area. Inside the vehicle, officers located alcoholic beverages, ammunition, a spotlight, and an unsecured firearm.

Through a coordinated effort involving the OPP Emergency Response Team, the Canine Unit and a Remotely Piloted Aerial System (drone), Mr. Hill-Brant was arrested.

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Picton at a later date. His driver’s licence has been suspended for 90 days, and his vehicle has been impounded for seven days.

The OPP reminds hunters and the public that firearms must be stored safely and securely at all times in accordance with the law. Improper storage and careless use of firearms can lead to serious criminal charges and pose significant risks to public safety.

Additionally, hunting and trespassing regulations are in place to protect property owners and wildlife. Always obtain permission before entering private property and follow all applicable hunting laws.