Mongoose bike proves poor get-away vehicle for suspect

TAMPA -- Note to future burglars: A Mongoose bicycle may not be your most effective get-away vehicle.

Three juveniles were arrested this afternoon after police say they smashed the window of a house at 1105 W Coral St., stole wallets, a purse and money, then fled through another smashed window when they heard the homeowner arrive.

Police tracked down two of the boys, ages 15 and 16, with search dogs after the 29-year-old homeowner gave chase and called 911.

But the third boy, also 16, was on a silver Mongoose bicycle when police caught up with him. Tampa police determined the teenager had stolen the bike from 1110 W Coral Dr., just prior to the burglary that led to their arrest.

One of the boys was taken to Tampa General Hospital, where he was treated for cuts police say he suffered after jumping through broken glass.

The teens are charged with  burglary of an occupied dwelling, grand theft, resisting arrest without violence. One also faces a charge of possession of burglary tools.

- Rebecca Catalanello, Times staff writer