Gunfire erupts during robbery

Riverside, Ca- On Thursday, March 2, 2006 at approximately 2050 hours, three armed male juveniles robbed four pedestrians near 12th and Mesa. The armed suspects demanded the victims’ property, which included cash, wallets, and a cell phone. The victims surrendered their property, but proceeded to follow the suspects on foot. One of the victims was able to retain his cell phone during the robbery and called police to report the incident. As the suspects realized they were being followed, they fired 10-15 rounds at the victims. None of the victims were struck by gunfire.

Within seconds the first Officer arrived was on scene and began to gather information for responding officers. Officers on the ground were assisted by the Department’s helicopter and the suspects’ location was quickly determined. Within minutes all three suspects were located in a drainage canal in the area of Kansas and Martin Luther King Boulevard. They surrendered and were arrested without incident.

Three firearms, belonging to the suspects’ were located nearby, along with the stolen property taken from the victims. One of the suspects was still in possession of one of the stolen cell phones. Victims and witnesses identified all three suspects, who were later booked into juvenile hall.

If anyone has information about this crime they should contact the Riverside Police Department Robbery Unit at (951) 320- 8000.