Knife-wielding masked shoplifter injured after struggle with Barrie retail store officer

Police release images of a masked suspect with a black backpack wanted in connection with a theft at a Bayfield Street store on Tues., Feb. 27, 2024, in Barrie, Ont. (Source: Barrie Police Services)

Police in Barrie hope to identify a knife-wielding masked shoplifter who allegedly threatened a loss prevention officer at a Bayfield retail store.

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Police say the suspect put several items from the store into a black backpack with green/yellow lined zippers around 1:40 p.m. Tuesday and attempted to leave without paying.

According to police, the suspect "violently displayed" a knife and made threats when the loss prevention officer approached him.

The suspect suffered a minor injury in the struggle and then took off out of the store, running toward Livingstone Street West with the backpack.

The accused is described as a white man, roughly 20 to 30 years old, wearing a black balaclava that covered his face. He wore a grey hoodie, blue jeans, and black shoes with white soles.

Police encourage anyone with information to contact the authorities at 05-725-7025, extension 2652.