LONDON — A bizarre chase involving the enraged operator of a farm tractor in pursuit of five teenaged cyclists concluded with no reported injuries — and arrests and criminal charges for everyone concerned.
The July 18 disturbance on a rural road north of London kicked into gear when the group of cyclists “intentionally damaged” a parked passenger vehicle, whose owner was operating the tractor nearby, according to Middlesex Centre OPP. Police say the 62-year-old man behind the wheel of the machine drove after the cyclists, “nearly striking” some of them. He then exited the tractor with a large stick and continued the chase on foot.
An officer arrived at the Nine Mile Road scene, near Clarke Road, shortly after 11:15 a.m., and took all involved into custody without incident.
Police report charging Thames Centre resident Thomas Buys, 62, with assault with a weapon and dangerous operation.
The cyclists, all residents of London and ranging in age from 15 to 19, were individually charged with mischief over $5,000. Police say they include: Juan Castro Cortes, 19; Juan Guarin Fandino, 18; Tomas Martinez Pinzon, 18; Daniel Monroy Torres, 18; and an unnamed 15-year-old whose identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Source : Farmersforum