Police have taken a man into custody in connection with a Wednesday morning armed robbery.
Thunder Bay Police Service officers arrested the man near Victoriaville Mall around noon. Police believed the man was involved in an arm robbery of a May Street Mac’s Convenience store that took place around 3:30 a.m.
No charges were laid.
Police believe the suspect fled on foot. The police K9 unit led officers to a Northern Avenue home where they believed the suspect might have been held up in a basement apartment. At one point, police broke the basement windows of the home and used loud explosive flashes.
Police spokesman Chris Adams said they were waiting for a search warrant before entering the building. He added that they weren’t sure if anyone else was in the building.
“We’re not sure if anyone is in there but every indication right now is that the building is probably empty,” Adams said.
“There’s a good reason for not just entering. There was evidence that a handgun may have been used so safety is number one.”
Adams wouldn’t say whether or not the man they took into custody had a weapon on him, did tell tbnewswatch.com that he was known to police.
Police blocked off the road from May to McKellar Streets along Northern Avenue.
Adams said he didn’t know how long the road will be blocked off.
“The officers will continue still maintain a perimeter around here and that will be in place until they have gained access to the residence,” he said.
“It’s a precaution just to make sure that no one is in there and that there is no firearm and if there is then they can contain it.”
About 25 police officers were involved in the standoff.
The investigation continues.
