Stolen Acura Used in St. Catharines Home Invasion: One Arrested, Four Sought
An 18-year-old man is facing numerous charges, and four suspects remain wanted by police following a home invasion robbery in St. Catharines early Friday morning, March 13, 2026. According to Niagara Regional Police, the incident involved a white Acura TLX stolen from Mississauga, which was used by five masked suspects armed with firearms.
Details of the Robbery
The suspects arrived at an apartment residence near Lake St. and Welland Ave. at approximately 3:50 a.m. Four of them forced entry into the home, stealing personal possessions from the victims, while the fifth suspect stayed in the stolen vehicle. Police responded within minutes to the scene.
During the confrontation, the suspect in the vehicle rammed two police cruisers before being arrested on site. The other four suspects fled on foot and were captured on security cameras heading westbound near Welland Ave. and Lake St. Investigators have released images of these individuals and are urging the public for assistance.
Charges and Investigation
Joshua Balkaran, of Elmira, has been charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Four counts each of robbery with a firearm and forcible confinement
- Two counts of break and enter dwelling house
- Disguised with intent, possession of a dangerous weapon, and mischief over $5,000
- Mischief under $5,000, dangerous operation, flight from peace officer, assault a peace officer with a weapon, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the apartment occupants or responding officers. Police have stated that this appears to be a targeted incident, with no ongoing risk to public safety.
Public Appeal for Information
Detectives are asking anyone in the area at the time of the offense who may have video or dashcam footage of the vehicle or suspects to come forward. Contact Niagara Regional Police at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009222, or Crime Stoppers of Niagara at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
This case highlights the cross-jurisdictional nature of vehicle theft and violent crime in the region, underscoring the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.
