Durham Regional Police are searching for a high-risk suspect following a violent Nicholas David Burr robbery spree that targeted two Oshawa convenience stores on consecutive days. Investigators with the Robbery Unit have identified the man as 36-year-old Nicholas David Burr, a person of no fixed address who is currently bound by multiple weapons prohibitions and court-ordered conditions. The incidents, characterized by threats involving both a firearm and a knife, have prompted authorities to issue an province-wide warrant for his arrest as they work to prevent further violence in the community.
The Nicholas David Burr robbery spree began on the night of Tuesday, April 15, 2026, at approximately 10:15 p.m. Police report that the suspect entered the Oshawa Grand Convenience on Nonquon Road, brandished a firearm, and demanded cash from the register. After obtaining an undisclosed amount of money, he fled the scene on foot. Fortunately, the store clerk was not physically harmed during this initial encounter. However, the level of aggression escalated the following evening at a second location in the city’s downtown-adjacent area.
On Wednesday, April 16, at approximately 7:40 p.m., police were called to One Stop Shopping Convenience on Mary Street. During this second robbery, the suspect produced a knife and made violent threats while demanding money. The store employee attempted to defend himself using a chair to create space, leading the suspect to slash and stab toward the clerk. Before fleeing, the suspect smashed a glass display case and stole a quantity of lottery tickets. The employee sustained minor physical injuries during the struggle and was treated at the scene.
Nicholas David Burr is now wanted on a litany of charges, including robbery with a firearm, robbery with a weapon (knife), assault with a weapon, and possession of stolen property. Additionally, he faces 13 counts of failing to comply with probation and release orders. Police consider Burr to be armed and dangerous due to his history and the weapons used during the Nicholas David Burr robbery spree. Members of the public are advised not to approach him if spotted, but to call 911 immediately to report his location.
The Robbery Unit is currently reviewing surveillance footage and searching for witnesses who may have seen a man matching Burr’s description in the areas of Nonquon Road or Mary Street. They are also asking residents and business owners to check their dashcam or security systems for any footage captured between April 15 and 16. Anyone with information that could lead to his apprehension is encouraged to contact the lead investigators or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. A cash reward may be available for information that successfully assists in bringing this spree to an end.
