In a concerning incident that has raised alarms about safety on Ontario’s highways, the Burlington Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating an attempted car jacking that occurred on Highway 403 in Hamilton. The incident unfolded in the early hours of Monday, September 15, 2025, around 12:30 a.m., as a driver navigated the dimly lit westbound lanes.

The victim was initially startled by a vehicle trailing closely behind, equipped with flashing bright lights. Mistakenly believing they were being pulled over by police, the victim pulled to the shoulder of the highway. This critical moment turned precarious when a male suspect approached, brandishing what is believed to be a chisel, and demanded the victim exit their vehicle.

In a stroke of luck, the suspect was unable to start the vehicle and ultimately fled the scene in his own car. Unfortunately, the victim could not provide a detailed description of the suspect’s vehicle, which complicates the investigation.

Witnesses have described the suspect as a dark-skinned male, who was seen wearing a blue surgical face mask and a baseball cap. The OPP is urging anyone who may have been traveling in the area around the time of the incident, especially those with dash cam footage, to come forward.

As Canadians, we take pride in our safe and welcoming communities, and incidents like these remind us to remain vigilant. The OPP Highway Safety Division is collaborating closely with the Burlington Detachment’s Crime Unit to gather evidence and identify the suspect involved in this alarming attempt at car theft.

Highway safety is a paramount concern for Ontarians, particularly during the late-night hours when visibility is low. Motorists are reminded to stay alert and aware of their surroundings, especially when approached by other vehicles displaying unusual behaviour.

As this investigation continues, the OPP are committed to ensuring the safety of all drivers on Ontario’s roads. The community’s support in reporting any suspicious activity is vital in helping law enforcement maintain the safety we all expect and deserve on our highways.

For the latest updates on this case, residents are encouraged to follow the OPP’s official channels, ensuring that they remain informed and involved in the safety of their communities.