A dramatic smash-and-grab robbery took place at the Oshawa Centre on Sunday afternoon, causing panic as bystanders tackled suspects to the ground and police arrested all five alleged culprits after a short foot chase.
Durham police confirmed the event after videos spread widely online showing shoppers holding down two suspects inside the mall while officers rushed in. The footage showed the aftermath of what authorities describe as a planned robbery involving several masked individuals and the use of bear spray inside the jewellery store.
According to police, the incident started around 3:45 p. m. on March 29, when four men burst into a jewellery store located within the Oshawa Centre at 419 King Street West. The suspects smashed display cases while a fifth accomplice stayed behind in a getaway vehicle outside the mall.
A police spokesperson mentioned that during the heist, one of the suspects sprayed bear spray, releasing irritants throughout the store and into nearby areas of the mall.
Oshawa Fire Department responded to assist with ventilating the building, and several individuals suffered minor injuries due to exposure to the spray. Those injured received treatment at the scene.
Police apprehend a suspect inside Oshawa Centre mall following a smash-and-grab robbery at a jewellery store on Sunday, March 29, 2026. Photo: Toronto Crime Watch/X.
As they fled from the mall, their vehicle was involved in a minor accident, according to police reports. Instead of stopping, they abandoned their car and tried to escape on foot. Authorities confirmed that all five suspects were captured shortly after.
Police identified Romario Abraham, an 18-year-old from Mississauga, who faces charges including robbery, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, and leaving an accident scene.
Coulton Peters-Mc Comb, 22 years old from Barrie, is charged with robbery, possession of a prohibited weapon, disguise with intent, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, conspiracy to commit an indictable offence and four counts related to possession of schedule I substances.
Ryan Mac Phail, who is 40 years old and has no fixed address is charged with robbery; disguise with intent; possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000; conspiracy to commit an indictable offence; along with two counts for not complying with probation conditions.
At his arrest time Mac Phail was already under weapons prohibition orders.
A 15-year-old male from Mississauga is facing charges including robbery; disguise with intent; possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000; conspiracy to commit an indictable offence; along with administering a noxious substance charge.
A 17-year-old male from Brampton has been charged similarly for robbery; disguise with intent; possession regarding property obtained by crime over $5,000; plus conspiracy allegations linked to committing an indictable offence.
All suspects are being held for bail hearings.
The Oshawa Centre continued operations following this incident but certain sections were temporarily affected due to bear spray ventilation efforts.
Durham police stated that investigations are still ongoing as officers review surveillance footage along with witness statements and widely shared online videos. Anyone who has information is encouraged to contact local authorities.
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