Customers help put an end to wild crime spree at Burlington supermarket

Customers and store security guards combined to subdue a knife-wielding man following a wild crime spree at a Burlington supermarket.

The two store workers and one other person suffered minor injuries during the altercation.

According to reports, a man entered the Fortinos at Appleby Line and Dundas Street just before 2 p.m. yesterday (Sept. 4) and was spotted stealing several grocery items.

When store security staff moved in to make an arrest, the man fled into the parking lot and tried to escape in a vehicle. However, that vehicle smashed into another car in the lot.

“The male exited his vehicle where he brandished a knife towards employees that were attempting to intervene,” said Halton police. “With the assistance of loss prevention officers and bystanders, the male was subdued and held for responding HRPS (Halton Regional Police Service) officers.”

Because the incident took place during daylight hours, several people in the area were surprised by the commotion and some commented on social media channels.

“I don’t know what happened, but there was a loud bang and then a lot of people running around and shouting. Then the cops showed up. It was a wild scene. You don’t expect this in Burlington,” said one chat group user.

Omar Abugalib, 24, of Hamilton has since been charged with the following:

• Theft under $5000
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
• Three counts of assault with a weapon
• Assault with intent to resist arrest
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle

Abugalib is being held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Halton police at 905-825-4777.