Juvenile arrested after Holly Ridge vehicle break-ins, six firearms recovered
HOLLY RIDGE, NC (WWAY) — A juvenile is facing multiple charges after an investigation into a string of vehicle break-ins in Holly Ridge led police to recover six firearms and other stolen property.
The Holly Ridge Police Department says it has been investigating multiple vehicle break-ins reported throughout town over the past several weeks. Multiple firearms and other property were reported stolen from vehicles.
During that time, police were also investigating several reports of gunfire and property damage.
According to HRPD, investigators obtained video showing the juvenile suspect involved in a shooting in which gunfire struck an unoccupied mobile home. Police say the juvenile is being charged in connection with that incident.
Investigators have not determined whether the juvenile or any of the recovered firearms are connected to other reports of gunfire in Holly Ridge.
On Monday, Sept. 21, police developed information identifying a juvenile believed to be involved in multiple vehicle break-ins and obtained a search warrant for a Holly Ridge residence.
Holly Ridge Police, Surf City Police and the Pender County Sheriff’s Office executed the warrant. Police say the juvenile attempted to run when officers arrived but was quickly taken into custody.
During the search, law enforcement recovered six firearms associated with the investigation, along with additional stolen property and other evidence, according to HRPD.
Officers also seized marijuana and drug paraphernalia from the residence. Police say those items remain part of the investigation, and any charges related to them will be determined later.
The juvenile faces multiple counts of felony breaking and entering a motor vehicle, felony possession of stolen firearms, possession of stolen goods and resisting, delaying or obstructing a public officer. Police say the juvenile also faces charges related to the shooting and damage to the unoccupied mobile home.
The juvenile’s identity is not being released because of the suspect’s age.
Police say the recovered firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether any can be connected to other reported shootings in Holly Ridge. Those incidents remain under investigation, and police say additional charges are possible.
Investigators are also working to identify and return recovered property to victims.
HRPD is reminding residents to lock their vehicles, remove valuables when possible and avoid leaving unsecured firearms inside vehicles.
