Stolen car found damaged in East Kildonan parking lot, teen arrested

A Winnipeg Police Service shoulder badge is seen on September 2, 2021 at the Public Information Office in Winnipeg. THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski

A 15-year-old male is facing charges after he allegedly crashed a stolen vehicle in the East Kildonan neighbourhood Monday evening.

Police were called to the 900 block of Kimberley Avenue for reports of a person driving erratically in a parking lot. When they arrived, a 2021 Kia Forte abandoned with heavy damage was found in the lot. Winnipeg police say the vehicle was stolen a week earlier from a home on Whitley Drive.

Investigators allege the stolen car was driven into the parking lot, with the driver screeching its tires and doing donuts around poles, until they lost control and hit one. Four people were in the car at the time, and ran from the parking lot. No injuries were reported.

The K9 Unit was brought in and found the suspects hiding behind a home on Green Valley Bay. Three were arrested without incident, while a fourth suspect was found near Louelda Street and Green Valley Bay a short time later.

A 15-year-old, who cannot be identified under the Youth Justice Act, is facing charges of mischief over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. He was released on an undertaking. The charges have not been tested in court.

The other three suspects arrested were released with no charges.