$15k reward offered for tips leading to arrest of multiple takeover-style robbery suspects
Police investigating convenience store crime wave
A group of young people are robbing multiple convenience stores at gunpoint around Puget Sound. Police believe they are in the same crew.
TACOMA, Wash. - Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is asking for the public's help in identifying as many as 15 suspects believed to be involved in a string of more than 30 armed robberies around Puget Sound. Investigators believe they all run in the same ring. The suspects are targeting Rite-Aid, Walgreens and 7-Eleven stores in King and Pierce County.
In an effort to stop this crime spree and protect employees and customers, Rite Aid, Walgreens and 7-Eleven are partnering with Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound in offering a reward of up to $16,000 for any tip that leads to an arrest.
"These are shock and awe type robberies. One suspect stands by the door to keep the automatic door open. They go in and create havoc. Put guns in people's faces and demand money," said Ret. Sgt. Jim Fuda with Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound.
One of those robberies led to a death.
Two 16-year-old suspects from Tillicum appeared in court on Friday, facing charges related to an armed robbery and a deadly crash that claimed the life of a semi-truck driver.
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Court documents say there’s evidence the teenagers had been smoking marijuana prior to the incident, which took place early Thursday morning above Interstate 5 in Lakewood. Prosecutors also claim that the teens resemble suspects caught on video robbing a series of convenience stores overnight, using a stolen Kia SUV.
At around 5:30 a.m. Thursday, a patrol officer recognized the vehicle based on a store clerk's description and attempted to initiate a traffic stop near the Freedom Bridge overpass. However, the SUV sped off, eventually colliding with a truck and ejecting the driver onto the highway below.
The teen driving the SUV faces charges of vehicular homicide, eluding, and unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle, while his passenger is charged with taking a motor vehicle without permission. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
If you recognize any of the suspects or have information who how is involved,, you will remain anonymous when you text a tip through the P3Tips app on your phone, or call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).