Masked robbery at Georgian Mall jewelry store under investigation, police say

The jewelry store, Michael Hill at the Georgian Mall, was robbed in a smash and grab on Tuesday and police are searching for suspects.

A smash-and-grab robbery at Barrie’s Georgian Mall is under investigation after police say a group of masked suspects targeted a jewelry store Tuesday evening.

Officers say multiple 911 calls came in around 6 p.m. reporting several suspects allegedly using hammers to smash display cases and grab merchandise from Michael Hill Jewellers.

According to witness statements, four young suspects believed to be in their late teens or early 20s were spotted leaving the popular mall and getting into a dark-coloured sedan that took off along Bayfield Street.

Officers arrived at the mall and confirmed extensive damage inside the store, reporting broken glass scattered across the floor and into the corridor.

Police say some jewelry was left behind as investigators secured the scene and began collecting evidence.

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Officials describe the four suspects as young men dressed mostly in dark clothing with face masks.

Police say one wore a black puffy jacket with orange gloves and carried a hammer and bag. Another was dressed in all black with green gloves and a reusable bag. A third, slightly taller, wore a black hoodie with a large logo, light-coloured pants, and carried a green shopping bag.

The fourth also wore all black with a face mask and sunglasses, carrying a hammer and a dark bag.

The total value of the stolen jewelry and damage has not yet been confirmed by police.

Investigators are asking anyone who was in the area, or who may have video, to come forward as they work to identify those responsible.