NEWS RELEASE
YORK REGIONAL POLICE
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On Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, at approximately 9:30 p.m., police responded to reports of a multi-vehicle collision on Yonge Street, south of Jefferson Sideroad. Officers determined that four vehicles were involved in the collision. A white Mercedes struck a grey Hyundai, a red Toyota Sienna van and a white Mazda. Many witnesses in the area rushed to assist those involved.
The driver of the white Mazda, a 44-year-old man from Richmond Hill, sadly succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two passengers in the Mazda, a 40-year-old woman and a 12-year-old boy both of Richmond Hill, were taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the grey Hyundai attended hospital with minor injuries and two occupants in the red Toyota Sienna van were not injured.
The driver and passenger in the Mercedes were taken to hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the Mercedes has been charged with impaired-related offences in connection with the collision.
Charged:
Fereidoon Hayatibahari, 19, of Richmond Hill
Charges:
- Impaired driving cause death
- Impaired driving cause bodily harm x2
- Criminal negligence causing death
- Criminal negligence causing bodily harm x2
The accused has been released from hospital and will be appearing before the Ontario Court of Justice in Newmarket sometime today.
“I would like to express our gratitude to members of our community who rushed to the scene to provide aid to the injured following the collision,” said Chief Eric Jolliffe. “This is a tragic loss for this family and our community as a result of impaired driving.
“This behavior is unacceptable and keeps happening despite our ongoing efforts. The message is clear: Don’t drink or use drugs and drive. York Regional Police is committed to continuing our work in the fight against impaired driving. We are not giving up.”
York Regional Police is asking anyone with information to contact the Major Collision Investigation Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704, or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
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