A teenager has been arrested and three suspects are still wanted following an armed carjacking Monday in Richmond Hill.
Police responded at about 1:15 a.m. to a report of a carjacking in the area of Leslie Street and East Beaver Creek Road. The victims were walking to their vehicle when they were approached by four suspects, who demanded the keys. At least one of the suspects had a firearm, York Regional Police said in a news release.
The stolen vehicle was located near Meadowvale Road and Highway 401 in Toronto, with one suspect inside.
A 17-year-old boy from Ajax has been charged with robbery with a firearm, disguise with intent, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and two counts of failing to comply with a release order.
At the time of the arrest, the youth was bound by release orders and was wanted by Durham Regional Police.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630. Information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or 1800222tips.com.
Police have provided the following tips to help people avoid falling victim to a carjacking:
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in places you feel safe.
- Stay vigilant at public garages, parking lots, gas stations, and controlled intersections.
- Keep your vehicle keys and house keys on separate key rings.
- Invest in GPS tracking or vehicle tracking services.
- Do not leave your vehicle running unattended.
- If you are the victim of a carjacking, avoid challenging the suspects. Obtain the best descriptions you can and call 911 when safe to do so.
