An armed robbery at a Petro Canada gas station in north Oshawa resulted in the arrest of 19-year-old Nathan Jean Michel on March 23, 2026, after a brief foot pursuit with Durham Regional Police. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. when the suspect entered the gas station on Simcoe Street North, threatened employees with a knife, and demanded cash from the register.
According to Oshawa Police, the suspect went behind the counter and stole a quantity of cash before fleeing the scene on foot. Police were quickly dispatched to the area, and Michel was located a short distance from the gas station. A brief foot chase ensued before the suspect was taken into custody without further incident.
At the time of his arrest, Michel was found to be in possession of a knife, despite the fact that he was already under release conditions prohibiting him from carrying weapons. This violation of his conditions led to additional charges in connection with the robbery.
The Durham Regional Police have charged Nathan Jean Michel with multiple offenses, including robbery, disguise with intent, possession of stolen property, assaulting an officer, obstruction, and failure to comply with release orders. Michel was held for a bail hearing, where he will face the legal consequences of his actions. The Durham Regional Police Auto Robbery Crime Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.
While Oshawa has seen its share of criminal activity in recent years, the swift response by law enforcement ensured the suspect’s arrest within a short time frame. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Oshawa residents and businesses but also emphasizes the commitment of Durham Regional Police to maintain public safety.
The Durham Regional Police are asking anyone with further information about the incident to come forward. If you have knowledge about Nathan Jean Michel’s whereabouts or other details related to the case, contact the Auto Robbery Crime Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5355. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
The robbery at the Oshawa gas station is a reminder of the importance of vigilance and community awareness in preventing crime. It also underscores the significance of prompt police action in addressing such incidents and restoring safety to affected neighborhoods. The community’s response, including law enforcement efforts, plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and security within Oshawa and Durham Region.
Despite the tense nature of this situation, the rapid action by the Oshawa Police and other emergency responders helped prevent further escalation and ensured that the suspect was swiftly taken into custody, removing a potential threat to the public.
