Haoju Zhou, a Markham resident and international student from China, received a six-year prison sentence for impaired and dangerous driving resulting in the death of off-duty York Regional Police (YRP) officer Travis Gillespie. The conviction follows a judge-alone trial in which Zhou's negligence, coupled with his underage G2 driving permit, played a significant role in the severe crash that occurred on September 14, 2022. The court also imposed a ten-year prohibition on Zhou's ability to drive after his release from prison.

During the trial, evidence revealed that Zhou, while driving his father's Porsche Cayenne, collided head-on with Gillespie’s vehicle as the officer was en route to his duty station at YRP in Richmond Hill. The judge, Justice Mark Edwards, highlighted the seriousness of Zhou's actions, reiterating the potential for his deportation to China upon the completion of his prison term. This case underscores the grave consequences of impaired driving, particularly when it leads to the loss of life and impacts the safety of the community.

The incident has drawn significant attention in Canada, emphasizing the ongoing issues surrounding impaired driving and public safety. The court's ruling serves as a stark reminder of the legal repercussions faced by offenders and the importance of responsible driving practices. The tragic death of Officer Gillespie has resonated with many, prompting discussions on enhancing enforcement and education efforts to prevent similar occurrences in the future, especially among young and inexperienced drivers.