Teen Arrests after Armed Robbery at Coastland Center Mall Shake Naples Community

Shocking Incident at Coastland Center

On June 21, Naples Police responded to a disturbing incident at Coastland Center Mall involving two teenage suspects who allegedly approached a 15-year-old girl, demanded her belongings, and turned violent when she refused. The suspects reportedly armed themselves and escalated the situation—physically assaulting the victim and making off with her shoes and necklace.

What began as a verbal confrontation quickly turned aggressive. One suspect brandished a firearm, forcibly yanked the victim to the ground, and robbed her. After briefly walking away, they returned, threw her down once more, and continued the assault by kicking and striking her while she lay defenseless.

As the teens fled toward nearby Fleischmann Park, witnesses reported they continued to brandish firearms—even pointing them at a vehicle in their path. This led to a dramatic police intervention. Officers from Naples PD, alongside Collier County Deputies, intercepted and arrested the pair before any more harm could be done.

Authorities identified the suspects as 16‑year‑old Joandry Silverio Perez and 15‑year‑old Ayden Thonday from unincorporated Collier County. Both have been taken into custody on charges including armed robbery and aggravated assault. As the legal process unfolds, the community is left wondering how two young people became involved in such a violent crime.

This incident isn’t isolated. Naples has seen a rise in youth-involved violence, including recent shootings near Seagate Beach and several other public altercations. As families mull over the safety of public spaces, concerns are growing.

Florida law holds parents accountable for their children's delinquency—sometimes even civilly—for unsupervised behavior . Considering this, Naples Police are reminding families that supervision isn’t just best practice—it’s a legal expectation.

As the community reels, here are clear, actionable steps for families and local officials:

For Parents & Guardians

1. Stay engaged – Know where your youth are and whom they’re with.

2. Talk firearms safety – Even rumors of guns at teen hangouts should prompt discussion.

3. Set clear boundaries – Agree on curfews and accompany teens to public spaces when possible.

For Local Leaders & Law Enforcement

1. Increase patrols – Especially around mall and park areas after school hours.

2. Host safety workshops – Collaborate with parents and students on violence prevention.

3. Install safety infrastructure – Consider cameras or panic buttons in vulnerable zones.

Final Takeaway

The violent robbery at Coastland Center is a wake-up call for Naples. Two youths, whether out of thrill, peer pressure, or something deeper, pulled a weapon and committed assault in public. But every family, school, and law enforcement partner has a part to play in preventing the next incident.