A juvenile is in custody after what Brooklyn Park police say started as a stolen box of ammunition and briefly turned into a risky chase near the Fleet Farm on Lakeland Avenue.
Officers say a juvenile male stole ammunition from the store, then took off in a vehicle. Police tried to stop the car, but the short pursuit was called off when it started to put other drivers in harm’s way. The teen was later found in the 7400 block of 85th Avenue N., where he allegedly tried to bolt on foot before officers detained him.
Brief Chase Called Off For Public Safety
According to the Brooklyn Park Police Department, officers were called to the Fleet Farm at 8400 Lakeland Ave. N. on Wednesday after store staff reported missing ammunition. Police say they quickly spotted the suspect in a vehicle and initiated a brief pursuit.
That chase did not last long. The department reported that officers stopped pursuing when it became clear the situation was putting other road users at risk. The same post states the juvenile was arrested on suspicion of theft, fleeing in a motor vehicle, possession of a firearm and possession of stolen property.
Store Has Seen Similar Incidents
It is not the first time this Fleet Farm has drawn police attention over ammo. CCX Media reported that over Memorial Day weekend in late May, officers arrested two people at the same Brooklyn Park store after an attempted ammunition theft. Those suspects were reportedly found with gun parts and ammunition.
Fleet Farm’s own store page, Fleet Farm, lists the Brooklyn Park location at 8400 Lakeland Ave. N., matching the address where officers responded on Wednesday.
Police Response And How To Share Tips
Police say the pursuit in this latest incident was called off specifically to avoid putting motorists and pedestrians in danger. According to the Brooklyn Park Police Department, officers later caught up with the suspect near the 7400 block of 85th Ave. N., where he was detained after attempting to flee on foot.
Anyone with information, including home or dash camera video, is encouraged to contact Brooklyn Park police. The City of Brooklyn Park lists the department’s main line and dispatch numbers for tips and other non-emergency calls.
Juvenile Case Could Follow A Different Path
Because the suspect is a juvenile, the case will move through Minnesota’s juvenile delinquency system. In limited situations, prosecutors can ask a court to certify older juveniles to stand trial as adults, according to the Minnesota statutes. Prosecutors will decide on any formal charges once the investigation is complete.
Authorities say the case remains under investigation. This story will be updated if prosecutors file charges or if police release additional details.
