Juveniles accused of stealing guns from Petersburg businesses

PETERSBURG – Four juveniles arrested Thursday after a police chase were linked to an early morning burglary the day before when several firearms were stolen.

The four reportedly showed up Thursday afternoon with the guns and a stolen car near Petersburg High School just as classes were ending. Later in the day, they were involved in a car and foot chase with police officers along Halifax Street, prompting a neighborhood to be issued a “stay indoors” advisory and a elementary school to be temporarily closed.

Each of the juveniles was charged with theft and possession of stolen firearms. Because of their ages, their names have not been released. They are believed to be PHS students.

The theft was reported shortly before 2:30 a.m. at a business in the 3600 block of South Crater Road. Police said a vehicle involved in the break-in was reported stolen.

When the suspects showed up at PHS Thursday afternoon, the school went into a shelter-in-place status while police combed the area for them. After approximately 10 minutes, police determined the suspects were gone and PHS was allowed to dismiss as scheduled.

Later Thursday, police said, the car was spotted on High Pearl Street. Officers later found him in the 900 block of Halifax Street with the suspects inside.

The car took off with the police in pursuit. About six blocks later, the car stopped and the occupants fled, but were eventually caught. Meanwhile, Cool Spring Elementary School, located near the scene of the chase, was placed on lockdown.

Police said all of the guns stolen from the business were recovered.

Petersburg City Public Schools said late Thursday night that there will be an increased police presence Friday morning at the high school as a precaution, but no incidents have been reported.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Juveniles arrested for stealing guns from Petersburg businesses