Four juveniles were apprehended by law enforcement in connection with an auto theft that took place in Germantown, following an incident involving gunfire. According to a press release from the Montgomery County Department of Police, the suspects are three 15-year-olds and one 16-year-old, all males charged with the theft of a black 2016 Hyundai Accent.
Events unfolded this past Monday when officers responded to reports of shots fired at around 4:52 p.m. on Circle Gate Dr. No victims were found, but the aftermath included multiple shell casings and property damage to two apartments and the aforementioned vehicle. The lookout for the stolen car led to a brief pursuit at 5:33 p.m., during which two suspects attempted to flee on foot. The chase continued until the vehicle stopped on Rothbury Ln., where the other two suspects also tried to make a run for it.
All four suspects were eventually captured with the assistance of a collaborative police effort. The Montgomery County Police, harnessing the capabilities of units such as K9, the Violent Crime Information Center, and aerial support from Prince George’s County Helicopter – Guardian, tightened their dragnet, ensuring the swift apprehension of the alleged perpetrators.
Of the arrested parties, two 15-year-olds were released to their parents, while another 15-year-old, found with a loaded .40 caliber handgun, was handed over to the Department of Juvenile Services facing additional firearm possession charges. The 16-year-old sustained minor injuries and, after being treated at a local hospital, was also released to a guardian. Their efforts were bolstered by local agencies, including the Gaithersburg Police Department and assistance from drone technology dubbed Raven.
