On June 3, 2022, at approximately 2:00 p.m., an adult female was robbed in the entranceway of a library in the St. John’s neighbourhood. While in the company of her infant child, the victim was confronted by two unknown males who grabbed hold of her purse in an attempt to steal it. As she was still hanging onto her purse, she was dragged, and the baby stroller containing her child was knocked over.
The suspects made off with the purse but returned with the victim’s stolen car keys minutes later. As they jumped into the vehicle, bystanders intervened, trying to stop them from stealing the car. One of the suspects pointed a firearm at a bystander, then drove away in the stolen vehicle. Police were contacted and met with the victim. She did not request medical attention for herself or her child.
On June 4, General Patrol officers from the North District observed the stolen vehicle being driven near Salter/Powers and attempted a traffic stop. As the vehicle slowed down, an individual from the initial purse robbery jumped out and fled on foot.
After a short foot pursuit, the suspect was taken into custody and turned over to the Major Crimes Unit.
A 16-year-old male of Winnipeg was charged with the following offences, while the other suspect has not been arrested:
- Armed robbery with a firearm
- Possession of a Firearm, Contrary to Prohibition Order
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
- Operation of a Conveyance While Prohibited by Order Under Criminal Code
He was detained in custody.