Three teens arrested in stolen suv case at wilmington shopping center

Delaware State Police arrested three teenagers Saturday morning in connection with a stolen vehicle found at the Prices Corner Shopping Center in Wilmington.

Troopers responded to the shopping center at 3140 Kirkwood Highway at approximately 10:40 a.m. after receiving a report of a black Ford Explorer believed to be stolen. A records check confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen to the Audubon Police Department in New Jersey. The SUV was located unoccupied in the parking lot.

Troopers began a search of the surrounding area and soon identified three males walking behind the shopping center whose clothing matched descriptions provided during the investigation. The individuals were taken into custody without incident. They were later identified as Qaadair Parks, 19, and Donald Shepherd, 18, both of Wilmington, along with a 17-year-old male from Newark.

The three suspects were transported to Delaware State Police Troop 2, where they were each charged with multiple felony offenses related to the stolen vehicle investigation. Authorities have not released the full list of charges or details about the nature of their involvement in the theft.

Ongoing investigation and legal proceedings

The 17-year-old’s name was not released due to his age. All three suspects remain under investigation as state police continue to work with the Audubon Police Department in New Jersey to determine how the vehicle ended up in Delaware.

Authorities did not disclose whether the teens have any prior criminal history or if they are believed to be involved in other vehicle thefts. No weapons or contraband were reported to have been recovered during the arrests.

Police have not indicated when the suspects will appear in court or whether the juvenile will be charged as an adult. The stolen Ford Explorer was recovered and will be returned to its registered owner.

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