Three teen boys - ages 15, 16, and 17 - have been charged in connection with an armed robbery at Maple Ridge Secondary School in Barrie.
Police responded to the school on Prince William Way at Mapleview Drive East around 9:30 Monday morning. When officers arrived, the school was placed in lockdown, and three suspects were arrested at the scene. During the investigation, police said officers recovered a handgun.
The school was placed in a hold-and-secure around 1 p.m. to allow officers to search for additional evidence, and students were dismissed at their regular time.
Two of the accused have been charged with:
- robbery using a firearm (restricted or prohibited)
- firearm - use while committing an offence
- pointing a firearm
- careless use of a firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition
- possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- carrying a concealed weapon
- unauthorized possession of a firearm
- knowledge of an unauthorized possession of a firearm
- possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon at unauthorized place
- possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition
- possession of a prohibited device or ammunition
The third male has been charged with:
- possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition
- possession of a prohibited device or ammunition
Their identities are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
"Barrie police understand that this event may cause concern within the community. We want to assure the public there is no ongoing safety threat. Our officers remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all students and staff," police said in a news release on Tuesday. "We thank the school community and parents for their cooperation and support during this investigation."
