In what’s becoming an alarming pattern for east-end shoppers, the Michael Hill Jewellery store at Place d’Orléans Mall was targeted in another brazen smash-and-grab robbery Tuesday morning. This marks the second such incident at the same location in recent months, raising serious concerns about security measures throughout the shopping center.
Ottawa Police responded to calls around 10:30 a.m. after three suspects wearing dark clothing and masks shattered display cases and fled with an undisclosed amount of merchandise. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as shoppers scattered and store employees activated security protocols.
“I was just walking past with my morning coffee when I heard this tremendous crash,” said Marianne Desjardins, 62, a regular mall walker. “People started running and security was everywhere within minutes, but those thieves were lightning fast.”
The east Ottawa shopping destination has faced similar incidents before. Just four months ago, the same jewellery store was hit in an almost identical fashion, prompting questions about whether enhanced security measures promised by mall management have been properly implemented.
Ottawa Police Staff Sergeant Caroline Phillips confirmed officers are investigating whether the incidents are connected. “We’re reviewing security footage and working closely with mall security to identify the suspects,” Phillips told me during a brief phone interview. “This type of brazen daylight robbery is particularly concerning for public safety.”
Mall management issued a statement indicating they’ve been cooperating fully with police and are “reviewing additional security measures” in light of the repeated incidents. However, some store owners feel more immediate action is necessary.
Jean Lefebvre, who operates a small gift shop nearby, expressed frustration with what he sees as inadequate response. “After the last robbery, we were promised more visible security. Where are they? My customers are nervous now, and that affects everyone’s business.”
Security expert Michael Waddell from Ottawa Protection Services, not affiliated with the mall, notes that these types of crimes are rarely spontaneous. “These smash-and-grab operations typically involve careful planning and knowledge of security protocols,” Waddell explained. “The speed suggests they’ve studied the layout and knew exactly what they wanted.”
The robbery comes amid growing concerns about retail theft across Ottawa. According to Ottawa Police Service data, commercial break-ins and thefts have increased by approximately 18% over the past year, with jewellery stores being particularly vulnerable targets.
City Councillor Matthew Luloff, who represents Orléans, called the incident “deeply troubling” for the community. “Place d’Orléans is a vital hub for our east-end residents. People deserve to feel safe while shopping, and businesses shouldn’t have to operate in fear.”
For shoppers, the incident has created uncertainty about mall safety. Regular customer Sheila Wilson, 54, was shopping in a nearby store when the incident occurred. “This is where I bring my grandkids on weekends. Now I’m thinking twice about that, which is sad because this mall has been part of our community for decades.”
The Michael Hill location remained closed for the remainder of the day as forensic investigators gathered evidence. Other stores continued operations, though several reported lower-than-normal customer traffic following the incident.
Ottawa Police are asking anyone with information to come forward, particularly those who may have captured video on mobile phones or dashboard cameras in the parking area during the time of the robbery.
As a journalist who’s covered our community for years, I’ve noticed these types of incidents creating ripple effects beyond the immediate crime. Each robbery chips away at the sense of security in public spaces that we often take for granted. Mall culture has been central to Orléans’ development, and seeing repeated incidents threatens that community cornerstone.
Police have not yet released descriptions of the suspects beyond their dark clothing, but have indicated they’re exploring possible connections to similar robberies throughout the Ottawa region over the past year.
