Kingston Police report that a group of Irish tourists have caused some havoc in the city and it is unclear if they are still in the area.

The force’s major crimes unit confirmed that the female suspect of a violent assault at the end of July has been connected to a group of Irish who have been frequenting the downtown area.

On July 30 at about 4:30 p.m., a woman entered Sun Convenience on Montreal Street, said Kingston Police. Ruby Lu, owner-operator of the store, told the Whig-Standard that she confronted the woman when she saw her take two cans of Red Bull and then try to leave without paying. Lu said the suspect then attacked her with the cans, striking her over and over before leaving.

Det. Joel Fisher said that store proprietors downtown recognized the female suspect after surveillance photos and video were released of the assault. They told police she was part of a large group of visiting Irish.

Fisher identified the woman as 20-year-old Mary Haye of the United Kingdom. She is wanted by Kingston Police for assault with a weapon.

Investigators then connected Haye and the group to a number of alleged instances of dining and dashing in at least four establishments.

While the restaurants did not wish to comment on the thefts, one particularly costly case took place at The Keg on July 28, according to police.

Sgt. Jay Finn estimated that well more than $1,000 was taken after a group of 16 adults, 12 children and one dog attended the restaurant’s patio that Sunday afternoon. The group came and went from the patio that runs along Clarence Street throughout the afternoon, he said. They ordered meals and drinks and then, at about 4 p.m., they yelled at their server to check on more of their food.

When the server went inside, the large group left without paying, Finn said.

He added that the unit is speaking with other police agencies to learn more about the group as well as the Canada Border Services Agency.

Fisher said they are unsure whether the group is still in Kingston. If anyone has information about them or their whereabouts, they’re asked to call police at 613-549-4660.

scrosier@postmedia.com

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