A frightening encounter unfolded near Coyote Point Park when a man was accosted and forced to flee from an armed suspect demanding his cell phone. According to the San Mateo Police Department's report, the incident occurred on the evening of April 15, adding a dose of fear to the otherwise peaceful neighborhood.

Responding to a distressing 911 call at approximately 7:15 p.m., officers were informed of a male suspect, later identified as Michael Bruni, 33, who was aggressively pursuing another individual. The suspect, wielding what appeared to be a pistol tucked in his waistband, failed to keep pace with the quick-thinking victim. The victim successfully created a diversion, allowing him to make an escape from the threat at hand. Witnesses later saw Bruni making a hasty exit in a white SUV.

Through the aid of a witness' crucial license plate number, law enforcement was able to track down the suspect. They discovered the vehicle in front of a Target store located at the BridgePointe Shopping Center. As the officers staked out, they patiently waited for Michael Bruni to return to the scene. When he did, he was apprehended without incident.

Upon inspecting the vehicle, officers were taken aback by their findings – a BB gun mirroring the menacing look of a Glock handgun and drug paraphernalia scattered only a reach away. Further investigation into Bruni's background revealed he was no stranger to the justice system, with an active history of legal trouble and was out on bail for a previous offense at the time of his arrest.

Bruni now faces multiple charges, including second-degree robbery, exhibiting a deadly weapon, and possessing unlawful drug paraphernalia, along with committing a felony while on bail. The San Mateo Police Department urges the community to maintain a heightened sense of awareness. In their statement, they impress upon residents the critical role of community vigilance and encourage immediate reporting of any suspicious activities.