Burnout: multiple N.S. drivers charged with stunting after 25 cars squeal tires

It may look like a scene from a racing movie, but police say the numerous tire tracks left on Highway 2 in Enfield are a result of stunting.

On Thursday morning, East Hants District RCMP says they received several complaints about unlicenced drivers and vehicles, including stock-car-style racecars on the highway.

When police arrived, they found numerous ATVs and stock cars on a side street forming part of a procession heading towards the highway. Police say the procession was stopped and people were advised ATVs are not permitted on roadways. Drivers were also told that stock cars must be licenced/insured before they are driven.

Police say the drivers were “extremely cooperative” and officers then guided the licenced vehicles when about 25 vehicles on the highway nearby started squealing tires on the pavement.

According to RCMP, this created thick smoke causing zero visibility and flying rocks and debris were sent up creating dangerous conditions for the pedestrians in the area.

Three vehicles were immediately seized by police and all three male drivers were charged with stunting. An officer then attempted to pull over an ATV for driving recklessly, but the vehicle was driven into oncoming traffic by the driver who did a wheely and then drove off.

“Our initial response was peaceful and respectful however things turned chaotic extremely quickly,” said RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dal Hutchinson in a release. “Our members’ number one priority is the safety and security of citizens and this erratic driving behaviour was putting motorists, pedestrians and police officers in danger.”

Hutchinson said they will continue to try and identify the ATV driver and said they will also charge others involved in the incident.

Stunting can include driving 50 kilometres-per-hour over the limit, driving without due car or attention, and attempting to spin a vehicle. The fine in Nova Scotia for stunting is $2,422.50, as well as a licence suspension for seven days.

RCMP say further charges are expected including dangerous driving.