Posted on Sept. 25: Three face charges in vehicle entries

Three suspects are in custody today after McMaster security officers observed them breaking into vehicles on campus Tuesday, Sept. 24.

At approximately 1 p.m., a McMaster shuttle bus driver witnessed someone suspicious entering vehicles and informed McMaster Security. Officers monitored their security cameras and observed three individuals breaking into vehicles. The officers responded in their cruisers.

According to sergeant Margaret McKittrick of the Hamilton Police, the suspects, who were operating a stolen auto, attempted to exit the parking lot but were blocked in by McMaster security cruisers. “The suspects rammed the roadblock and subsequently collided with a third McMaster vehicle (a McMaster Physical Plant van) where they were eventually stopped. All three suspects were apprehended. Hamilton Police cruisers responded to assist and take control of the suspects.”

The suspects were transported to St. Joseph's Hospital and the Hamilton General with minor injuries and released. The vehicles were towed and secured.

As the vehicles contained stolen equipment, the Hamilton Police Break and Enter Auto Recovery Unit was advised and will continue an investigation.

Hamilton Police suspect the arrested persons may have been responsible for numerous other thefts from autos in the area.

Facing charges of dangerous driving, theft and possession under $5,000 and criminal negligence causing bodily harm are Michael Hall, 19, Trevor Marquard, 20, and a 16-year-old Hamilton female.

“The entire community came together to make this arrest,” says McMaster's sergeant of crime prevention Cathy O'Donnell, noting Parking and Transit Services helped redirect traffic. “It really was a combined effort.”