Why a crashed vehicle in Elliot Lake was covered in Christmas wrap

Police said the vehicle was in the ditch, partially wrapped in Christmas wrapping paper. (File)

A driver gave police an unusual explanation after his SUV was found covered in Christmas wrap after it crashed into a ditch last week in Elliot Lake, Ont.

The incident took place around 11:40 p.m. July 16 when Ontario Provincial Police discovered the dark brown vehicle in a ditch in the area of Milliken Mine and Lookout Tower Road.

“Once on scene, police observed the vehicle in the ditch, partially wrapped in Christmas wrapping paper,” the OPP said in a news release July 17.

“Police spoke to the agitated and uninjured male driver who said he wrapped the vehicle to keep the bugs out.”

After numerous attempts, police said the driver refused to provide a breath sample and was subsequently arrested.

The vehicle was also towed and impounded.

The 19-year-old man is charged with failure or refusal to comply with demand and has an Aug. 20 court date in Elliot Lake in the Ontario Court of Justice.

“The OPP reminds motorists that no amount of alcohol or drug is acceptable to consume and drive,” police said.

“Report impaired drivers. Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, please dial 911 or contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122.”