Kids arrested in smash-and-grab at East Bay mall

Mall Security called police about a burglary in progress at 3:53 a.m. after a “large group” broke into the mall by breaking down a glass door, according to the Concord Police Department. Officers responded and found the suspects leaving the mall.

“Four suspects entered a vehicle and fled, leading officers on a short pursuit,” Concord PD said. “The driver lost control, was involved in a solo vehicle collision and then fled on foot.”

Three suspects left behind in the car were immediately arrested. The driver was found hiding in some bushes near the car and was arrested. No one was injured in the crash. 

Six of the seven arrested youths are minors from San Pablo and Richmond, police said. They were booked into Contra Costa County Juvenile Hall.

One of the suspects, 18-year-old Marcos Ramirez-Castro of Richmond, was booked at the Martinez Detention Facility.

The suspects all face an extensive list of charges, police said. One suspect was allegedly found in possession of a gun with modifications that made it an assault weapon. There are no outstanding suspects in the case.