Suspects used vehicles to smash into Winnipeg businesses in two incidents early Thursday morning, said police. A third business was also hit earlier in the week.
Around 1:30 a.m., an off-duty officer saw a vehicle driven in to the Liquor Mart at the Charleswood Centre on Grant Avenue and Laxdal Road. The suspects allegedly took a few bottles of alcohol and fled before police could apprehend them.
Damage to the business is estimated at $40,000, said police. Police suspect thieves used two vehicles—one to smash into the stores and the other to get away.
"Based on information we have so far it does appear they are involved in stealing a vehicle using that vehicle to cause significant damage to businesses," said Const. Jason Michalyshen, a spokesperson for Winnipeg police.
About 20 minutes after the first incident, officers were called to World Custom A/V & Automation in the 3200 block of Portage Avenue where suspects drove a vehicle through the front window before fleeing. Suspects caused considerable damage but are believed to have only made off with a handful of electronics.
A damage estimate has not yet been released. A stolen black GMC pickup truck was spotted at the incident at the Liquor Mart on Grant and the vehicle was later found abandoned outside World Custom.
On Wednesday morning, a vehicle crashed into the Easy Home store in the 2200 block of McPhillips Street and a couple of televisions were taken. A stolen truck was left behind.
Police are investigating whether there's a connection between the two incidents Thursday, or if they're connected to previous smash and grab incidents.
- with a report from CTV's Caroline Barghout
