Teenager tried to rob supermarket saying he had a gun, police allege

A teenager who allegedly attempted to rob a Gungahlin supermarket, saying he had a gun, will face the ACT Children’s Court on Monday (6 August).

Police said the 15-year-old boy entered the Woolworths Supermarket in Franklin on Saturday evening (August 4) about 6:43 pm, and demanded money.

Members of the public confronted him, and the teenager said he had a firearm and repeated his demand for money before attempting to climb over the front counter, police said.

A member of the public intervened and the teenager fled the scene empty-handed.

Gungahlin patrol members arrived shortly afterwards and located the teen nearby. They were able to confirm he did not have a firearm in his possession, but he was carrying a knife.

The 15-year-old was arrested and charged with attempted aggravated robbery with an offensive weapon, and possession of a knife without a reasonable excuse.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any information that could assist police, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously. Please quote reference number 6294290.