Male Arrested for Firearm Possession During Disturbance in Oshawa

A male is in custody for possessing and pointing a firearm toward police following a disturbance in Oshawa.

On Sunday, May 26, 2024, at approximately 2:35 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to a disturbance call in the area of Simcoe Street South and John Street.  A group of unknown persons were making threats toward the victim and staff of a local business.  One of the men was believed to be in possession of a firearm.  The male fled on foot from police and when confronted pointed a firearm at officers.  Police engaged in a foot pursuit where the male threw the firearm over a fence.  The male was taken into custody a short distance away without incident.  The firearm was seized and determined to be an air soft gun.

The victim did not sustain any physical injuries.

William HAYES, age 23 from Oshawa is charged with: Uttering Threats, Use of Imitation Firearm During Offence, Possess Weapon Dangerous to the Public, and Fail to Comply with Probation Order.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Cst. Nurse of Central East Division at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 3887.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court. 

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