Police arrested one suspect after a violent Robstown robbery and continue searching for a second suspect. Police say the targeted daytime attack left the victim with serious head injuries after the robbery.
Witnesses, surveillance technology, and coordinated police efforts quickly led officers to one suspect in Duval County.
Targeted Armed Robbery Shocks Robstown
Police say the robbery occurred Tuesday afternoon outside the Matiana Food Mart on the 700 block of North Matiana Ortiz Boulevard in Robstown.
According to Robstown Police Chief Mike Tamez, two masked men allegedly traveled from Laredo and followed the victim before confronting him outside the convenience store. Investigators believe the victim had been conducting business at the location when the suspects approached him as he stepped out of his vehicle.
Authorities said the suspects carried an AR-style rifle and a shotgun during the robbery. One attacker allegedly struck the victim multiple times in the head with the rifle before stealing a large amount of cash.
Chief Tamez described the incident as a deliberate crime rather than a random act of violence. Investigators believe the suspects specifically targeted the victim, prompting police to remind residents and business owners to remain alert whenever handling or transporting money.
Police Urge Residents to Stay Aware
Following the attack, Chief Tamez encouraged the public to pay close attention to their surroundings before exiting their vehicles, particularly when conducting financial transactions or carrying significant amounts of cash.
Police say awareness can play an important role in preventing similar crimes, especially when suspects may be watching potential victims before striking.
Witnesses and Technology Help Identify Suspects
Investigators moved quickly after several witnesses reported seeing the robbery unfold.
Police said eyewitnesses provided valuable descriptions of both the suspects and the getaway vehicle, giving detectives an early lead in the investigation.
Although the suspects reportedly attempted to hide their identity by wearing ski masks and covering their vehicle’s license plate, investigators still managed to identify the vehicle using license plate reader technology.
According to Chief Tamez, detectives successfully recovered license plate information despite the suspects’ efforts to conceal it. That evidence allowed law enforcement agencies to begin tracking the vehicle shortly after the robbery.
Suspect Captured in Duval County
The investigation soon extended beyond Robstown.
Authorities said the suspects’ vehicle was later spotted by the Freer Chief of Police while at a local store. The officer immediately alerted the Duval County Sheriff’s Office, which conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle.
Police arrested one suspect from Laredo without incident.
Investigators said officers discovered evidence inside the vehicle that directly connected the suspect to the armed robbery. Chief Tamez expressed confidence in the investigation, stating that detectives are certain they have identified one of the men responsible for the violent attack.
In addition to the physical evidence recovered during the arrest, investigators also obtained clear surveillance video capturing the robbery as it happened. Police believe the footage will play a significant role as prosecutors prepare the criminal case.
Second Suspect Still Being Sought
While authorities have secured one arrest, the investigation remains active. Police said a second Laredo suspect remains at large, and investigators withheld the individual’s identity.
Officials continue to gather evidence and follow investigative leads as they work to complete the case. Law enforcement agencies will coordinate across jurisdictions until officers capture the remaining suspect.
Victim Recovering After Violent Attack
Despite suffering serious injuries during the robbery, the victim is reportedly recovering.
Police said the store owner sustained multiple blows to the head after one suspect struck him repeatedly with a rifle before stealing his money. Despite serious injuries, investigators said the victim is recovering well after the assault. The case underscores cash-handling risks and reminds business owners to stay vigilant during daily operations.
Investigation Continues
Detectives review evidence, interview witnesses, and search for the second suspect as they build their case.
Authorities have not announced additional charges or provided a timeline for future arrests. Police believe witness statements, surveillance video, and vehicle evidence will strengthen the prosecution’s case.
As the investigation continues, Robstown police urge anyone with information to contact law enforcement.