A Hialeah food store was the scene of an armed robbery when Suniel Arzola, 46, allegedly used a sledgehammer after losing money gambling. He faces felony charges, including armed robbery and false imprisonment with a deadly weapon. Following his initial arrest, Arzola attempted to escape from a hospital, adding escape and resisting arrest charges, according to Local 10.
The incident occurred at RC La Atenas Market & Smoke Shop on the night of Nov. 30. Police say Arzola, masked and wielding a sledgehammer, jumped the counter, forced an employee into a bathroom, and smashed gambling machines to steal cash. Investigators noted he had visited the store earlier that day and was upset over slot losses. A distinct hand mark captured on security footage helped confirm his identity.
CiberCuba reported on the aftermath of the sledgehammer robbery. The investigation revealed Arzola's girlfriend on surveillance video, where she appeared to pick up a hammer from the scene and later dispose of it for unknown reasons.
According to authorities, Arzola continued to resist at Hialeah Hospital, fleeing after discharge and prompting a chase that ended with a Taser and restraints. Local 10 reports that he was denied immediate bond, with bail listed as "to be set."
