El Paso police are asking for the public’s help tracking down a man who reportedly held up a Lower Valley bakery at gunpoint and took off with cash on Feb. 9. Investigators say surveillance video shows the suspect pull a firearm at the counter and then run toward Whittier Drive shortly before 5 p.m.
What police say
According to KFOX14/CBS4, the holdup happened at El Fenix Bakery, which sits near the Bronco Swap Meet at 8438 Alameda Ave. Crime Stoppers reports the man waited outside until customers left, then walked in, picked up a few items and, when the register opened, pulled a gun and demanded cash.
Who they're looking for
Crime Stoppers and witnesses describe the suspect as a thin man in his 30s, light-complexioned and about 5-foot-6, wearing a black hoodie and dark sunglasses, per KTSM. Witnesses told investigators they saw him run south on Whittier Drive after the robbery.
Police say the entire incident was caught on the bakery’s surveillance cameras. Crime Stoppers released still images to the media that show the man pulling a handgun at the counter. Investigators believe the getaway vehicle may have been a white pickup similar to a Dodge Ram, though the truck does not appear in the video, according to KFOX14/CBS4.
How to help
Crime Stoppers of El Paso is asking anyone with information to call (915) 566-8477 (TIPS) or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of El Paso. The organization says tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
Police have not announced any arrests and say the investigation remains active, officials told KTSM. Investigators are asking residents and businesses in the area to review doorbell and dashcam footage from the evening of Feb. 9 for anything that might help identify the suspect or a possible vehicle.
Legal note
Because a firearm was displayed during the theft, charges could be elevated under state law. Robbery is defined in the Texas Penal Code, and the use of a deadly weapon can lead to an aggravated-robbery charge. The relevant statutes are outlined in the Texas Penal Code.
Anyone who was near 8438 Alameda Ave. around 5 p.m. on Feb. 9 and has video or other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. Tips can be submitted anonymously and may qualify for a reward. Police say they will continue reviewing footage and following up on leads as the case moves forward.
