Three people arrested trying to break into gun store in Beech Grove

BEECH GROVE, Ind. — Criminal charges have been filed against an 18-year-old accused of trying to break into a Beech Grove gun store with two juvenile suspects.

According to court documents, the crime was foiled by a vigilant Beech Grove police sergeant sitting in his patrol car.

The officer noticed the three suspects park in a parking lot just north of the police station, wearing ski masks and carrying backpacks.

Around 5:30 a.m. Friday morning, video cameras show three would-be thieves walking down an adjacent alley after parking a stolen car.

The trio then jumped the fence at the back of Beech Grove Firearms without realising that police were right behind them.

“The officer actually observed the situation unfold,” said business owner Greg Burge.

In fact, before the suspects could even enter Greg’s business, police handcuffed and arrested two 17-year-olds, as well as 18-year-old Tyrone Bonner.

“Thankfully and professionally, Beech Grove Police were on scene,” Burge said.

Bonner now faces two charges of attempted burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary.

According to the affidavit, one of the suspects told police what they did was stupid and admitted he was glad police caught them.

“In my view, this is clearly a case where the good guys won,” Burge said.

This case is not the first time Greg’s company has been targeted.

Last year, thieves broke down the front door of a stolen car and stole dozens of guns.

Fortunately, this time no weapons were stolen and no damage was caused to his business.

“In my opinion, it couldn’t have ended better. No one was hurt and no guns will be sold on the streets of Indianapolis for God knows what,” Burge said.

The two minors arrested Friday even sent Greg handwritten notes apologizing for the crime.

Greg is just relieved that the police were able to prevent further violent crimes from taking place.

“These people are not breaking into homes to steal guns because they collect guns. They’re breaking into homes for other crimes. So this is a huge accomplishment that the police were able to do,” Burge said.

The 18-year-old suspect is due in court on Tuesday for an initial hearing. In the meantime, he has been able to post bail and has been released from jail pending trial.