East Hamilton man hit while driving on his birthday, 2 flee scene

A Hamilton man’s birthday got off to a rough start Thursday after his vehicle was struck and the two suspects fled the scene.

Police say the suspect vehicle was speeding in the area of Lawrence Road and Province Street South around 6:15 a.m., when it swerved into the oncoming lane and hit another vehicle.

Chad Upson, the driver whose car was hit, says he was on his way home after a night shift when the crash happened.

“I’m in a little bit of shock, I was about 30 seconds from home,” Upson says. “It’s my birthday today, and it’s just a weird feeling. I am glad I am okay.”

Officers say no one was injured.

After colliding with Upson’s car, investigators say the suspect vehicle lost a wheel and crashed into a tree, fence and house. The tree then fell on an unoccupied third vehicle.

A male and female fled the scene, and they’re wanted by police.

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The homeowner tells CHCH Morning Live that he was getting ready to take out garbage when he heard sounds from the collision.

“I came outside, and the vehicle had taken out my fence and our tree. Two people were exiting the vehicle quickly, and they took off down Lawrence Road,” Sean Sinclair says.

“This is the second time someone has crashed through our fence. The first time was in the winter, and speed was a factor.”

Sinclair adds that many drivers don’t adhere to the 50 km/h posted speed limit on Lawrence Road.

Lawrence Road is currently closed between Province and Edgemont streets as police clear the debris. Both cars have been towed from the scene.

Anyone with information on this hit-and-run is asked to contact investigators at 905-546-2963.

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