Las Vegas Teens Charged in Violent Crime Spree

DA seeks to move suspects from juvenile to adult court after armed robberies, car theft, and police chase

Feb. 23, 2026 at 7:15pm

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Two teenagers in Las Vegas went on an armed robbery spree across the valley on Tuesday, stealing a car and robbing multiple victims at gunpoint before leading police on a chase that ended in North Las Vegas. The crime spree left victims without their means of transportation and caused extensive damage to the stolen vehicle.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing concerns around juvenile crime and the debate over whether certain offenders should be tried as adults, especially when violent crimes involving weapons are committed. It also raises questions about bail reform and public safety in the Las Vegas area.

The details

According to police, the two teenage suspects committed three separate armed robberies across Las Vegas, using a gun to steal personal items from victims who were on foot. The chaotic incident ended outside Jerry's Nugget Casino in North Las Vegas, where police surrounded the stolen vehicle. The stolen car belonged to Saul Placencia, an electrician who had just finished paying it off and relied on it for work. The car sustained extensive damage during the police chase, with the bumper missing and the tires damaged.

  • On Tuesday, the teens went on an armed robbery spree across the Las Vegas valley.
  • The crime spree and police chase ended outside Jerry's Nugget Casino in North Las Vegas.

The players

Saul Placencia

A Las Vegas resident whose car was stolen and used during the crime spree, leaving him without transportation for his work as an electrician.

Clark County District Attorney's Office

The prosecutor's office is seeking to move the two teenage suspects from juvenile to adult court due to the violent nature of the crimes.

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What they’re saying

“It's still not a good feeling waking up seeing your car missing, and they tell you they find it and it's all wrecked.”

— Saul Placencia (KTNV)

“These robberies, all three of them, a gun was used. Personal items were taken from the victims who were on foot.”

— Metro Police Spokesperson (KTNV)

“Give them some jail time. Keep them off the street so that way they don't harm anybody or do anything else that's stupid or reckless.”

— Saul Placencia (KTNV)

What’s next

The District Attorney's office is seeking to move the two teenage suspects from juvenile to adult court due to the violent nature of the crimes committed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around juvenile crime and whether certain offenders should face adult charges, especially when violent crimes involving weapons are committed. It also underscores the impact these crimes can have on victims, such as Saul Placencia, who lost his means of transportation for work.