A Hamilton business owner foiled a robbery after receiving a warning in a group chat from another targeted store owner. The suspects, armed with a knife, failed to steal anything and fled in a stolen van. The community’s collective efforts led to the successful arrest of the four suspects. Toronto reported
Hamilton Business Owner Thwarts Robbery with Help from Alert Store Owner
A brave business owner in Hamilton, UK, successfully foiled a robbery attempt after receiving a timely warning from another store owner who had just been targeted by the same group of suspects, according to local police reports.
Incident Details
The incident took place on Thursday morning in the vicinity of Parkdale Avenue North and Roxborough Avenue, where KC Convenience, a local business, is located.
Hamilton police revealed that four individuals wearing masks entered the store, brandishing a knife, and demanded valuables from the store owner. However, the suspects failed to steal anything and swiftly fled the scene, making their getaway in a stolen white Honda van.
Alert in Group Chat
Upon contacting the police, the vigilant business owner immediately utilized a group chat with other local business owners to spread awareness of the recent robbery attempt. This proactive response proved crucial, as the same group of masked suspects later targeted the Big Bee convenience store on Barton Street East, approximately four kilometers away from the initial incident.
Quick Action at Big Bee Convenience
The employee at Big Bee convenience store spotted the suspects approaching the premises and acted swiftly by securing the entrance before the perpetrators could gain access.
Frustrated by their failed attempt, the suspects then headed to the Wholesale Club, where they targeted an individual in the parking lot in an attempt to rob their vehicle. However, their efforts were in vain, and they quickly fled the scene in their van.
Collision and Arrest
During their escape, the suspects collided with another vehicle at the intersection of Nash Road North and Barton Street East. Seizing the opportunity, the four suspects abandoned the van and attempted to flee on foot. Fortunately, the police promptly located and apprehended them.
Suspects Identified
The four suspects have been identified as 18-year-old Veron Francois from Brampton, 18-year-old Takai Glen from Etobicoke, and two 16-year-old boys from Toronto and Etobicoke. The names of the underage suspects cannot be disclosed due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Charges and Police Statement
Veron Francois and Takai Glen are facing multiple charges, including robbery with intent to steal, disguise with intent, robbery with violence, and possession of property obtained by crime over £5,000. The two 16-year-olds are each charged with robbery with intent to steal, possession of property obtained by crime over £5,000, disguise with intent, and robbery with violence in accordance with the Youth Peer Court (YPC) regulations. Additionally, the teen from Toronto faces an additional charge of failing to comply with a release order under the YPC.
In a statement, the Hamilton police commended the collective efforts of the community, emphasizing their vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of local residents. They urged anyone with information about the incidents to contact the Hamilton police directly, Crime Stoppers anonymously, or visit the official Crime Stoppers Hamilton website.
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