Police charge armed Hamilton man after break-in at car dealership

Hamilton police arrested a man following a break and enter at a Hamilton car dealership Friday night, where the suspect was found in possession of a loaded firearm.

Officers say at around 11 p.m., they responded to a report of a break and enter at a business in the area of Rymal Road East.

They say the business owner reported seeing a suspect inside the building through the security camera footage.

Investigators arrived at the business and say they saw a suspect matching the description was seen exiting the dealership.

When police tried to stop him, the suspect fled on foot, but was arrested after a brief chase.

Detectives say during the arrest, the suspect told them he was in possession of a firearm.

Officers found a loaded handgun concealed in his waistband, and no injuries were reported.

They say a subsequent investigation revealed damage to the building, including a smashed rear garage window.

Police have charged 50-year-old Kristoffer Stevenson of Hamilton, with offences including committing a break and enter, possessing a loaded restricted weapon and possessing property obtained by crime.

Officers say Stevenson was bound by multiple court orders at the time of the incident, including conditions prohibiting possessing firearms and requiring him to stay at his residence.

Stevenson was held in custody for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.

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