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Juveniles arrested after leading police on chase in stolen Mercedes

The suspects are facing numerous felonies and may be linked to several other stolen cars, detectives said.

ALBEMARLE, N.C. — Two juveniles were arrested and another is wanted in connection with a police chase involving a stolen car, investigators said. 

An Albemarle Police officer said his cruiser was nearly hit by a white Mercedes-Benz that ran a stop sign at Arey Avenue and East Main Street around 2:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10. Two officers pursued the vehicle before three males jumped from the car on South Morrow Street, police said. 

One of the suspects was immediately taken into custody. A second was arrested after Stanly County K-9s searched the area. Both suspects, who are under 18, were found with a handgun according to police. The third person who jumped from the vehicle is still on the loose. 

The arrested suspects face numerous felony charges and are being held by the North Carolina Juvenile Justice Department. Investigators believe the group is linked to multiple stolen vehicles in Albemarle. Neither suspect has been identified due to their age. 

Investigators determined the Mercedes was stolen just minutes before being spotted by police. The car was stolen after it was found unlocked with the keys inside. The vehicle was returned to its owner. 

"This was a dangerous encounter with armed individuals," Interim Police Chief Penny Dunn said. "The Albemarle Police Department has well-trained Officers who exercised good judgment, quick action, and courage when facing a difficult situation."

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Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots. 

WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings. 

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