Teens Set Off Fire Extinguisher, Steal Chips at MGM National Harbor

Posted on: August 28, 2024, 12:19h. 

Last updated on: August 28, 2024, 12:35h.

Ed Silverstein @casinoorgedsilv Read More

Expertise: Legal, Tribal Gaming.

Three suspects are in custody following a brazen weekend holdup at Maryland’s MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino.

The young bandits got hold of a fire extinguisher and sprayed the gaming floor at about 2:45 p.m. Saturday. They then grabbed gaming chips before trying to escape from the gaming property.

A short time later, two 16-year-old and one 18-year-old male were apprehended in connection with the crime, according to the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD).

All are being charged as adults, DC News Now reported. If convicted, they could be incarcerated in adult prison.

None of the three suspects were identified in local news reports. Other suspects also took part in the robbery but they haven’t been identified or captured as of early this week.

No one was injured in the incident and it’s unclear how much the stolen chips are worth. It’s also not known if the chips were recovered by police officers or casino security guards.

Visitors Comment

Saturday’s incident infuriated casino visitors who reside in other states.

I think it’s just shocking and it’s shameful where our society is going with kids. [They] think they can do whatever they want and feel no accountability and it seems to be getting worse,” Steve Shafer of Alabama was quoted by DC News Now.

“It’s disappointing and shocking,” Laura Yates of Texas added. “I can’t believe they were so brave to walk in there and do something like that with no regard for anyone’s safety.”

Following the incident, the PGPD announced it’s offering a $2,500 reward for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the suspects.

Prior Chip Theft

In December, MGM National Harbor’s gaming floor was the scene of a similar theft. Seven suspects made their way into the casino and swiped casino chips from a gaming table.

Two suspects were apprehended. Five others avoided capture at the time of the holdup.

Some of the casino security guards suffered minor injuries in an apparent scuffle with the suspects, according to Washington DC TV station WTTG.