NEWS

Police chase armed man after Mercedes stolen, cruiser struck

A man faces 13 charges after police twice located a stolen vehicle, had their own vehicle rammed, chased a suspect on foot, and recovered a firearm with ammunition, police said in a press release today.

The chain of incidents reportedly began on May 4 at 8 p.m. when officers identified a stolen Mercedes Benz near Yorkdale Mall and tried to stop it for investigation.

But the driver rammed a police cruiser and drove off at a fast speed, police said.

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When officers found the vehicle again, the driver this time allegedly took off on foot near Lawrence Avenue West and Dufferin Street.

Observing the man had a firearm in his hand, officers gave chase, bringing in the major crime unit and a K9 Unit.

With the help of members of the public, they caught the man, they said.

A Taurus G2C .40 calibre firearm and 10 rounds of ammunition were reported recovered.

fiream and ammunition recovered after Mercedes found
GUN AND BULLETS: Firearm and ammunition police say they recovered.

Shane Smith-Thomas, 32, of Toronto has been charged with possessing property obtained by crime exceeding $5,000, possessing a firearm while prohibited, possessing a firearm obtained by crime, failing to stop for police or pursuit, dangerous operation of a vehicle, failing to comply with a release order, and seven other counts.

He appeared virtually in court on May 5.