Six youths busted for failed Downsview jewelry store heist
Cops are still looking for a seventh suspect in connection with the attempted robbery
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Six teenagers face charges for a failed jewelry store robbery in Downsview.
York Regional Police allege investigators linked the six accused to a stolen Acura TLX sedan in Vaughan and followed the vehicle to the area of Billy Bishop Way and Wilson Ave. – just west of Allen Rd. – last Friday.
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Five of the would-be bandits exited the car carrying sledgehammers and bags, police claim.
The group allegedly approached a jewelry store and attempted to force their way inside, but they failed to gain access to the shop.
Video captured from above by the York Regional Police helicopter shows the bandits hopping back in the allegedly stolen vehicle just as unmarked police vehicles swarm into the parking lot. One police vehicle smashed into the front end of the suspect vehicle as cops box the car in.
The bandits exited the car and tried to run but they were quickly arrested thanks to the combined efforts of officers from the Hold-Up, Emergency Response, Canine and Air Support Units.
A 16-year-old from Brampton faces five charges, including robbery with a weapon and two counts of disobeying order of court.
A 17-year-old and two 16-year-olds from Toronto along with a 17-year-old from Brampton each face three charges, including robbery with a weapon, wearing a disguise with intent and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
A 17-year-old from Vaughan faces four charges, including possession of an automobile master key.
Police said a seventh suspect, who was not in the vehicle at the time of the failed heist, was subsequently identified by investigators and is still sought.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
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