Multiple restaurant break-ins tied to social media trend

UPDATE 3:

Officers have identified the fifth and final suspect in this case. Their image has been removed in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Thank you to everyone who shared our post.

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UPDATE 2:

Officers have identified a fourth suspect, aged 17 years old. The lone suspect pictured here remains outstanding.

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UPDATE:

Officers have identified three suspects in this case (two of whom are minors). The two suspects pictured here remain outstanding.

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WINDSOR POLICE NEWS RELEASE 
Case #: 25-23840, 25-24423, 25-25207
Multiple restaurant break-ins tied to social media trend

The Windsor Police Service is seeking five suspects in connection with three recent break-ins at local restaurants. Investigators believe the incidents are connected to a concerning social media trend that dares individuals to film themselves breaking into coffee shops and other eateries.  

The first incident occurred shortly before 5 a.m. on March 12, 2025, when the suspects pried open the drive-thru window of a restaurant in the 3400 block of North Service Road. They climbed through the opening and appeared to record the break-in on a cell phone.

Another incident took place at a restaurant in the 1400 block of Huron Church Road on March 14, 2025. Suspects once again forced open a drive-thru window, entered the restaurant, and filmed themselves dancing and berating employees. No injuries were reported. 

On March 16, 2025, at approximately 3:30 a.m., five suspects returned to the same restaurant on Huron Church Road, repeating the same actions while one individual remained outside to record the incident.

Through investigation, officers obtained surveillance footage of the suspects, who are the subjects of a criminal investigation.

The Windsor Police Target Base Unit urges community members to avoid participating in this social media trend, which can result in criminal charges and serious consequences.

Anyone with information about these or similar incidents is asked to contact the Windsor Police Service Target Base Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4350. Tips can also be provided anonymously to Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.