Police arrest two teen after seniors kidnapped at gunpoint in Quebec

The Canadian Press / Times Colonist
February 17, 2013

MANIWAKI, Que. - Police arrested two teenagers and were looking for a possible third suspect on Sunday after two seniors were kidnapped at gunpoint and driven more than an hour from their home in Quebec.

A 70-year-old woman and 65-year-old man were taken Friday from their home near Maniwaki, a small town northwest of Montreal, and driven to a barn in L'Isle-aux-Allumettes, about 150 kilometres away, according to Quebec provincial police.

Sgt. Ronald McInnis said the kidnapping appears to have been motivated by theft.

"We're talking about a computer, wallet, handbag, and money, but we don't have the amount," he said.

It's also alleged the teens also stole the couple's vehicle, which was recovered Saturday in Pembroke, Ontario.

McInnis said the seniors managed to get to safety early Saturday morning after the suspects fled in L'Isle-aux-Allumettes. The couple flagged a passing driver who came to their aid.

A 16-year-old Ottawa boy was arrested shortly afterward in nearby Pembroke, Ont., not far from where the stolen vehicle was found in a parking lot, McInnis said.

A 17-year-old boy turned himself into police in Quebec on Sunday morning.

The two boys are set to appear in court Monday and investigators are trying to determine whether a third person was involved.

The boys could face charges for breaking and entry, stealing a vehicle, and kidnapping.

McInnis said it's unclear whether the suspects used a real gun or a fake. The couple was taken to hospital with minor injuries and shock, police said.