A sweeping multi-agency police operation has brought a decisive blow to the underground world of street racing in the GTA.
Between May and June 2025, Project ERASE, an acronym for Eliminating Racing Activities on Streets Everywhere, led to the arrest of over 130 individuals, the investigation of 684 vehicles, and the seizure of nearly 100 cars. More than 2,100 charges were laid, including 86 for stunt driving and 125 for excessive noise.
The results of the operation were revealed in a press release issued by Hamilton Police and published on their official website.
The joint enforcement initiative was spearheaded by Peel Regional Police, in collaboration with the Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto Police Service, York Regional Police, Halton Regional Police, and Hamilton Police Service.
The campaign focused on high-risk driving hotspots across the region, where police observed reckless behaviour including extreme speeding, illegal races, and dangerous stunts performed on public roads.
“Street racing is illegal and puts lives at risk. Through initiatives like Project ERASE, Peel Regional Police are committed to curbing dangerous driving behaviours that threaten the safety of our roads,” said Deputy Chief Marc Andrews of Peel Regional Police.
Crashes and High Speeds: The Deadly Reality
Among the disturbing incidents, on May 17, police stopped a vehicle travelling at 209 km/h, a speed that could prove fatal in any miscalculation. The driver was charged with stunt driving.
Just one day later, on May 18, a white car involved in a street racing event ran a red light and collided with a silver pickup truck, flipping it onto its roof. The driver was charged with dangerous operation, stunt driving, and racing a motor vehicle.
Zero Tolerance Approach
Project ERASE is not new; it’s an annual, intelligence-led initiative that uses coordinated, high-visibility enforcement to dismantle a dangerous driving culture. As part of the campaign, officers work around the clock to track down drivers engaging in illegal car rallies, racing, or aggressive stunt driving.
Authorities are now urging the public to play a role in improving road safety by reporting reckless driving.
How You Can Help:
- 📞 Road Safety Services: 905-453-3311
- ☎️ Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
- 💻 Submit online reports via the Road Watch portal
- 📷 Upload photos/videos via the evidence submission portal
As summer driving season peaks, police say the message is clear: if you race on our streets, expect consequences.
By Stephen Armah Quaye
