A quiet shift at Burrito Express turned into a scare in Scappoose on Monday when an employee reported that a masked man armed with a pistol robbed the restaurant, prompting a heavy police response along Columbia River Highway. Officers searched the area with both K-9 and drone teams but did not find the suspect, and police said there were no reports of injuries. Investigators say they are following up on leads and are asking the public to help fill in the gaps.
Neighbors in the area reported an unusually large police presence along the highway as officers converged on the scene.
Police: Suspect Description And Search
According to the City of Scappoose, the employee who called in the robbery described the suspect as a thin white adult male, about six feet tall, wearing a dark beanie, a green mask and a dark-colored coat. The suspect was last seen running out the back of the restaurant and heading north.
The city’s post said Scappoose Police were joined by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office and Oregon State Police. The search effort included a Columbia County Sheriff's K-9 and drones from Columbia County and the Scappoose Fire District. Despite the air and ground push, officials said the suspect was not located.
Location And How To Help
Burrito Express is located at 52547 Columbia River Highway in Scappoose, according to business listings on MapQuest.
The city’s post asked anyone with information or surveillance video from the area to call Columbia 911's non-emergency line at (503) 397-1521, listed on the Columbia 911 contact page, and ask to speak with Sgt. Anderson regarding Scappoose Police case #260005217. Columbia 911's contact page shows the same non-emergency dispatch number used by local agencies.
City Post Included Photos
The City of Scappoose Facebook post also shared photos of officers and vehicles at the scene, giving residents a closer look at the response they saw along the highway. Officials urged anyone who might have relevant footage or details to preserve that evidence and contact dispatch with tips, adding that they plan to provide updates as the investigation continues.
