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An 18-year-old man is facing numerous charges and four suspects are wanted after police allege a vehicle stolen in Mississauga was used in a St. Catharines home invasion robbery early Friday morning.

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According to Niagara Regional Police, five masked suspects armed with firearms arrived at an apartment residence in the area of Lake St. and Welland Ave. at approximately 3:50 a.m. in a white Acura TLX that was stolen in Mississauga.

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“Four of the suspects forced entry into the residence and stole personal possessions from the victims,” police said in a statement. “The fifth suspect remained in the stolen vehicle.”

Cops said officers arrived within minutes to the scene.

“The suspect who remained in the stolen motor vehicle rammed two police cruisers, while the other suspects fled on foot,” police said. “The suspect from the vehicle was arrested on scene.”

Police said four suspects who fled the area were captured on security cameras fleeing westbound on foot near Welland Ave. and Lake St.

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Investigators released images of the suspects.

Joshua Balkaran, of Elmira, has been charged with four counts each of robbery with a firearm and forcible confinement, two counts of break and enter dwelling house, disguised with intent, possession of a dangerous weapon, mischief over $5,000, mischief under $5,000, dangerous operation, flight from peace officer, assault a peace officer with a weapon, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

Cops said the occupants of the apartment were not injured, nor were any responding officers.

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“Detectives believe this to be a targeted incident and there is no ongoing risk to the safety of the public,” police said.

Investigators are asking for anyone in the area at the time of the offence who may have video or dashcam footage of the vehicle or suspects to contact them at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009222, or contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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