Key Takeaways
- Four teenagers, aged 14 to 17, have been arrested in connection with an attempted robbery at Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga
- The suspects, who were masked and carrying hammers, entered the mall shortly before 3 p.m. on Wednesday
- Police pursued the suspects, and after a brief chase, they were arrested and charged with robbery, attempt to commit an indictable offence, and other related charges
- The suspects are also linked to another robbery attempt in York Region
- No injuries were reported, and no property was stolen from the mall
Introduction to the Incident
The incident occurred on Wednesday at Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga, when four masked individuals carrying hammers entered the mall shortly before 3 p.m. The suspects, who were later found to be teenagers aged 14 to 17, attempted to commit a robbery but were quickly spotted by mall security and an on-site paid-duty officer. The officer and security personnel pursued the suspects, leading to a brief but intense chase. The swift response of the authorities prevented any harm to the public and ensured that no property was stolen from the mall.
The Pursuit and Arrest
As the suspects fled the scene, they got into a stolen Honda CR-V and attempted to escape. However, police officers were hot on their heels and quickly tracked the vehicle. The officers boxed in the Honda CR-V, preventing the suspects from fleeing further. Dashcam footage from one of the cruisers at the scene shows the dramatic pursuit, with two police vehicles converging on the SUV and blocking the front of the vehicle and the driver’s side door. The footage also shows one suspect running away, with officers giving chase, and another suspect being tackled to the ground and arrested. The entire incident was brought under control within minutes, and the suspects were taken into custody.
Charges and Investigation
The four suspects have been charged with robbery, attempt to commit an indictable offence, possession of property obtained by crime, and two counts of disguise with intent. Due to their age, the suspects cannot be identified under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. The police investigation is ongoing, and it has been revealed that the suspects are also linked to another robbery attempt in York Region. The authorities are working to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in other crimes and to identify any potential accomplices. The swift and effective response of the police has prevented further harm and has brought the suspects to justice.
Conclusion and Aftermath
The attempted robbery at Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga highlights the importance of swift and effective law enforcement. The quick response of the police and mall security prevented any harm to the public and ensured that no property was stolen. The incident also underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the community. The police are urging anyone with information about the suspects or their activities to come forward and assist in the investigation. As the investigation continues, the community can rest assured that the authorities are working tirelessly to keep them safe and to bring those responsible for crimes to justice. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community policing and the need for everyone to work together to prevent and respond to crimes.