Customers at a Fairfax County cellphone shop flipped the script on an alleged would-be armed robber, forcing him out of the store after he tried to restrain them, according to police. The suspect ran off before officers arrived, and authorities say the hunt for him is still on, with no arrests announced so far.
What police say
According to FOX 5, a man walked into the business and tried to restrain customers, but things did not go the way he apparently planned. People inside the store fought back, wrestled him out, and pushed him out the door. Fairfax County police are canvassing the area and treating the incident as an active investigation, the station reports.
Earlier dispatch at Springfield Plaza
FFXnow reported a similarly tense scene on Feb. 24 at the Cricket Wireless in Springfield Plaza, where employees disarmed a man who had brandished a firearm and tried to restrain workers. In that case, one employee was treated for a minor injury, the suspect dropped items while fleeing, and responding officers, assisted by a helicopter, were unable to track him down.
How to help
The Fairfax County Police Department is asking anyone with information or relevant video to come forward. Per the department, tips can be shared by calling the Major Crimes Bureau or submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers, and residents can register their cameras through Connect Fairfax County to assist detectives. Fairfax County Police Department.
If you see suspicious activity, authorities say to call 9-1-1 and avoid confronting a suspect yourself. Store staff and shoppers are encouraged to preserve any surveillance footage and provide it to investigators so police can follow up.
