'Very random crime spree': 4 teens arrested after break-ins at dealerships, vape shops

A group of Winnipeg teenagers faces charges after the theft of seven vehicles including four from dealerships and break-ins at three vape stores in just over a week.

The series of break-ins began on July 1, when a vehicle was stolen from Loewen Place in South Pointe.

The teens were arrested after a high-risk vehicle stop by officers on July 8, police said.

Between the South Pointe car theft and their arrest, the teens allegedly stole two vehicles from the area of Markham Road and Pembina Highway as well as the four from dealerships.

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They are also accused ofstealinga variety of items from the three vape businessesand breaking into a business on Rothwell Road.

Around 2:15 p.m. on July 8, officers from the Winnipeg Police Service tactical support team saw one of the stolen vehicles, a Toyota 4 Runner, travelling around Silverstone Avenue and Tamworth Bay.

All four teens were taken into custody after a high-risk vehicle stop, police said, and officers found a black Smith and Wesson pellet gun on the floor of the vehicle.

"This appears to just be a group that went on a very random crime spree and the details are still unfolding," said Const. Tammy Skrabek of the Winnipeg Police Service.

The teens range in age from 16 to 19. Skrabek said all four were previously known to police.

All four have been charged with a variety of offences, including theft and breaking and entering.