Orillia armed robbery leads to 2 arrests, 2 suspects at large

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

ORILLIA — A tense overnight armed robbery investigation here last night has led to two people being arrested and charged — and two others still being pursued by police.

The east end of Orillia near Atherley Road was under heavy police presence today as they looked for four suspects in an armed robbery around midnight on Monday and into Tuesday morning.

Provincial police said in a release at 12:50 p.m. today that they responded to a robbery with weapons, which occurred at a James Street address just after 11:30 p.m. March 11.

James Street is located in the east end of the city, near Atherley Road close to Casino Rama.

Police said they were called shortly after 1 a.m. Tuesday.

Dozens of police converged in the area as members of the OPP detachment in Orillia, the Central Region Emergency Response Team (ERT), Tactics and Rescue Unit (TRU) and Canine Unit (K9) responded.

As a result of the initial investigation, two male suspects were arrested and face numerous charges involving robbery and weapons.

Police say they continue to investigate and that two additional male suspects are still being sought in relation to the robbery.

OPP believe this is a targeted occurrence and that there is no further threat to public safety as of Tuesday afternoon.

However, that was not the case around midnight, before police issued a media alert at 2:40 a.m., reminding the public to stay locked indoors.

“Currently there is a heavy police presence in the area of James Street East and Atherley Road. Officers are requesting area residents to ensure their doors are locked and to remain inside their homes. … If you notice suspicious activity in your neighbourhood please call 911.”

Later, at 3:50 a.m., they issued an update: “If residents locate suspicious items near their properties, please do not touch the item and contact the Orillia OPP.”

Anyone with knowledge of this incident, or who has seen anything suspicious in the area, is encouraged to contact the Orillia OPP at 705-326-3536 or 1-888-310-1122.

Members of the Orillia Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police are committed to public safety, delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities. Officers value your contribution to building safe communities. If you have information about suspected unlawful activity, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or visit Crime Stoppers at: www.crimestopperssdm.com or call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).