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Masked teens rob Burnaby liquor store with bear spray

A least six customers, staff maced before youths grabbed armfuls of booze and took off; two boys aged 14 and 16 arrested, police say

Police are looking for more suspects in a bear-spray liquor store robbery last week reportedly perpetrated by seven or eight youths dressed in black and wearing masks.

The youths, believed to be in their mid-teens, entered the B.C. liquor store on Willingdon Avenue between Hastings and Pender streets at about 5:50 p.m. on Sunday.

“They sprayed several customers and staff with bear spray,” Burnaby RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Brett Cunningham told the NOW.

The youths then grabbed multiple bottles each of liquor, including wine, whiskey and vodka, and fled the store, according to Cunningham.

He said the group split up when they got out of the store, but officers located two of the youths, aged 14 and 16, nearby and arrested them for robbery.

Cunningham said the 14-year-old was uncooperative and resisted arrest.

Police are now looking for the other suspects.

At least six people suffered the effects of bear spray, but no serious injuries were reported, according to Cunningham.

Anyone with information about the incident or the suspects is asked to call Burnaby RCMP 604-646-9999.

To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).  

This article has been corrected. The original stated the incident happened last Saturday; in fact, it happened on Sunday, Oct. 10.

Follow Cornelia Naylor on Twitter @CorNaylor
Email cnaylor@burnabynow.com