Barrie convenience store theft turned violent: BPS

A convenience store on Bayfield Street at Sophia Street West in Barrie, Ont. (CTV News/Steve Mansbridge)

Police in Barrie are investigating a theft at a convenience store that they say turned violent on Wednesday afternoon.

Police say a suspect went into Bayfield Convenience on Bayfield Street and Sophia Street West around 3 p.m. and left with a bottle of wine without paying. The incident, police say, was captured on the store's security video.

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They say the store owner followed the man as he left the business, but another man joined the suspect, and the two allegedly assaulted the owner.

Police say the accused, a 28-year-old man of no fixed address, was located while officers attended an unrelated call. He was taken into custody and charged with robbery with theft. The second suspect remains at large.

The 46-year-old store owner had to be taken to a local hospital to be treated for his many injuries.

Police urge residents not to put their personal safety at risk but rather let officers handle these situations.