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Kelowna teens arrested in violent break and enter

Seven suspects, many of whom were teenagers, remain in police custody after allegedly committing a violent break and enter

Seven suspects, many of whom were teenagers, remain in police custody potentially facing countless charges after allegedly committing a violent break and enter early Monday morning.

On March 28 at 12:25 a.m., the Kelowna RCMP responded to a reported break and enter to a residence located in the 2100 block of Burtch Road.

"Police received information that the several suspects had gained entry into the home and had sprayed occupants of the residence with bear mace before fleeing the scene with electronics," said Const. Jesse O'Donaghey, in a press release.

"The four occupants of the residence, a 53-year old woman, and three men who ranged in age from 19 to 26, were home at the time of the attack. Although one of the residents, a 20-year-old man sustained non-life threatening injuries after being struck several times, none of the homes occupants required medical attention."

Investigators identified seven suspects, a 17-year old boy, an 18-year old woman, and five other men who range in age from 19 to 21, all of whom are from the Kelowna area. RCMP managed to safely take each of the suspect into police custody within a matter of several hours.

Investigators also recovered the stolen property.

“Investigators have determined that the incident was a targeted and isolated event. At least one of the victims knew the attackers,” said O’Donaghey.

"The 17-year-old Kelowna boy faces potential charges of break and enter to commit an offence, robbery, assault with a weapon, and fail to comply with a Recognizance. The remaining six suspects each face potential charges of break and enter, and robbery."

All seven accused suspects were expected to appear in court Tuesday.