Police and members of town council are responding to a brazen attempted robbery at Bradford Jewellery yesterday.
On Friday morning, South Simcoe Police Service issued a statement saying three suspects tried to rob the downtown store at gunpoint, but their attempts to smash display cases failed and they fled empty-handed in a grey, four-door vehicle.
Late Thursday evening, the town issued a statement from Deputy Mayor Raj Sandhu on behalf of council in response to the incident in which store owner and Ward 7 Coun. Peter Dykie was allegedly pistol-whipped.
“I was devastated to learn about the attempted robbery and assault that took place at Bradford Jewellery,” Sandhu said in the statement.
Dykie is safely recovering at home, according to Sandhu, who said Dykie and his family appreciate the concern and support shown by the community.
“This brazen attack has left many residents, fellow business owners, and Peter’s family and friends shaken. I encourage the public’s assistance, support, and co-operation as South Simcoe Police conduct their investigation,” Sandhu said.
Police described the suspects as:
- Suspect No. 1: Male, Black — late teens to early 20s, tall, approximately six foot, thin build, wearing a black balaclava style mask, black pants and a black sweater, with a red circular logo.
- Suspect No. 2: Male, Black — late teens to early 20s, average height, approximately 5-foot-7, medium build, wearing a black balaclava style mask, wearing a half black/half white Nike tech fleece sweater, black sweatpants, possibly a red reusable bag.
- Suspect No. 3: Male, Black — early 20s, average height, approximately 5-foot-10, wearing a black balaclava style mask, black clothing.
Investigators are appealing to anyone with information, security camera or dashcamera footage, to contact Acting Sergeant Andrew Smith at 905-775-3311, 705-436-2141, extension #1043, [email protected], or Detective Constable Dan Raymond at 905-775-3311, 705-436-2141, extension #1027, [email protected], or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).
