Two juveniles, aged 12 and 15, have confessed to their involvement in a recent break-in at a Cornelius gun shop, according to local police. The incident occurred early Monday morning at The Range at Lake Norman, where multiple firearms were reported stolen around 3 a.m.
Police stated that the suspects left the scene in a white Nissan Rogue, which was later spotted heading toward the Davidson area. On Tuesday afternoon, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department notified Cornelius police after locating the vehicle.
Upon discovering the car, officers found both juveniles inside, who admitted their participation in the break-in. Several of the stolen firearms were recovered at the scene.
The case is now being referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms in the investigation. Cornelius police are still searching for a third suspect linked to the break-in.
Increased Security Measures
In response to the incident, The Range has implemented new security measures, including a guard dog that will be present on the premises from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. The front door of the business has been boarded up with plywood following the break-in.
Just a few miles away, local entrepreneurs Michael Lazorik and Jasper Jones are preparing to open the Tactical Gentlemen gun store next week. They emphasized the importance of security, stating they have fortified their store with iron bars, a full security system, and concrete barriers to prevent potential vehicle ramming. The previous gun store at their location was targeted six times over three years.
Jones highlighted the need for vigilance in the firearm retail industry, saying, “If you have firearms, you have to be a little more careful and cautious. Whatever parameters you need to put in place, that’s what I will do.”
Call for Information
Anyone with information regarding the ongoing investigation is encouraged to contact the Cornelius Police Department at 704-892-1363.
