Four teenagers between the ages of 14 and 16 have been arrested in connection with a burglary at Strykers Shooting World gun store in Las Cruces, as police continue their investigation into the incident. In a crime that involved stolen vehicles to breach the premises, these youths face a slew of charges, including aggravated burglary with a deadly weapon and larceny involving firearms. According to the Las Cruces Police Department, the arresting officers have also charged them with conspiracy, breaking, criminal property damage, tampering with evidence, and unlawful possession of a handgun.
The daring theft took place in the early morning hours of November 22, when the group allegedly used a stolen red Kia Forte to smash through a gate and door to gain entry. After leaving the damaged vehicle behind, they are believed to have fled in another stolen car, a gray Kia Forte. Despite a rapid response from local police, triggered by alarms at the crime scene, the group successfully evaded initial capture. The fourth member of the arrested group faces an additional count of receiving stolen property valued between $2,500 and $20,000.
Quick work from the Las Cruces Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division, along with assistance from the Street Crimes Unit, Patrol, and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), led to the identification and arrest of the suspected individuals. Several stolen firearms were recovered during the execution of a search warrant, tying the teenagers to the burglary.
