A high-stakes confrontation at the Oshawa Centre has resulted in multiple criminal charges for a local resident who was already prohibited from carrying weapons. On Monday, April 6, 2026, an Oshawa man allegedly brandished a knife and threatened security personnel during a brazen midday theft at a busy Shoppers Drug Mart.
The Confrontation at the Oshawa Centre
At approximately 11:10 a.m., officers from the Durham Regional Police Central East Division were dispatched to an “armed person” call at the Shoppers Drug Mart located within the mall at 419 King Street West. According to police reports, a male suspect entered the store and began concealing various retail items in a personal bag.
When the suspect attempted to leave the premises without paying, he was intercepted by mall security guards. Rather than complying, the Oshawa man reportedly pulled out a knife and made verbal threats toward the security staff to facilitate his escape. Fortunately, the guards were not physically harmed, and the suspect fled the mall on foot.
Rapid Response and Arrest
Durham Regional Police arrived on the scene quickly and established a perimeter around the shopping center. Following a brief search of the immediate neighborhood, officers located the suspect a short distance away. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Upon identifying the suspect, investigators discovered he was already bound by a court-ordered weapons prohibition condition. His possession and use of the knife during the theft represent a direct violation of his standing legal requirements.
Charges and Legal Status
The accused has been identified by Durham Regional Police as Alexander Joseph Callaghan, age 35, of Oshawa. Callaghan faces several serious charges, including:
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Assault with a Weapon
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Uttering Threats
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Theft Under $5,000
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Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
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Breach of Probation
Callaghan was held for a bail hearing following his arrest. The DRPS is using this incident to highlight the ongoing risks faced by retail security and the importance of professional police intervention when weapons are involved in shoplifting incidents.
Public Appeal for Evidence
While the suspect is in custody, the investigation remains active. Cst. Aucoin of the Central East Division is asking anyone who may have witnessed the event or captured cell phone or dashcam footage in the Oshawa Centre parking lot to come forward.
If you have information, please contact the DRPS at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1701. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information that leads to a conviction may be eligible for a cash reward.
