Convenience Store Robberies – Suspect Description Released

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking public assistance in identifying four suspects following two convenience store robberies.

On Monday, September 19, 2016, at 1:30 a.m., police were called to a convenience store in the area of Steeles Avenue East and Warden Avenue, in the City of Markham, for a report of a robbery. The investigation has revealed that four suspects entered the convenience store, one of them armed with a handgun. The men made a demand for cash. The employee did not immediately comply and was assaulted by the suspects. The suspects fled the store on foot with a quantity of cash. The employee was treated for minor injuries.

A short time later, on Monday, September 19, 2016 at 2:40 a.m., police were called to a convenience store in the area of Steeles Avenue West and Bathurst Street, in the City of Vaughan, for reports of a robbery. Four suspects entered the store, one of them armed with a sharp knife-like object. The suspects left the store with cash and lottery tickets and were seen entering an older-model vehicle turning onto Steeles Avenue. The employee was not injured.

The suspects involved in both robberies had similar descriptions and they are believed to be linked.

Suspect #1:

Male, black, 20 to 30 years, muscular build, wearing dark clothing, face mask, dark gloves, carrying a sharp weapon, possibly a knife

Suspect #2:

Male, black, 20 to 30 years, wearing dark clothing, face mask, carrying a silver handgun

Suspect #3:

Male, black, 20 to 30 years, 5’11”, wearing dark clothing, face mask

Suspect #4:

Male, black, 20 to 30 years, wearing dark clothing, face mask

Vehicle:

Dark-coloured vehicle, older model

The investigation is ongoing.

Investigators from the Hold-Up Unit remind business owners of the importance of maintaining and updating video surveillance equipment. Quality images help to identify suspects, can aid in arrests and have a tremendous impact during court proceedings.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6631, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com, or text your tip by sending your message to CRIMES (274637) starting with the word YORK.

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