A would-be armed robbery at a Walgreens on Broadway in Riviera Beach fizzled out Sunday afternoon, thanks to a quick-thinking pharmacist who quietly pulled police into the unfolding stickup before anyone got hurt.
How the pharmacist foiled the attempt
According to CBS12, a man walked into the pharmacy at 2501 Broadway, handed the pharmacist a note saying he was armed, then set a gun on the counter while demanding medication.
Instead of panicking, the pharmacist quietly alerted police. A Riviera Beach police captain who responded was reportedly able to see into the pharmacy before going inside, which gave officers a crucial read on the situation. After the suspect abandoned the weapon, officers moved in and took him into custody without anyone being hurt and without further confrontation.
Where it happened
The tense moments played out inside the Walgreens at 2501 Broadway, a long-standing neighborhood store that serves the area with a drive-thru and late pharmacy hours. The location and available services are listed on Walgreens' online store locator, according to the company’s website.
Arrest and suspect status
Authorities told CBS12 that the man taken into custody is a convicted felon. He remained at the Riviera Beach Police Department as detectives continued their investigation. Police did not immediately say whether formal charges had been filed.
Possible charges under state law
Because investigators say the suspect is a felon who had a firearm and allegedly tried to rob the pharmacy, prosecutors could seek weapons counts along with attempted robbery charges. Florida law makes it illegal for a convicted felon to possess a gun, under section 790.23 of state law, as cited on the Florida Legislature website. That statute is the likely basis for any firearm-related charges that may follow.
What police want
Riviera Beach police are asking anyone who might have video or information about the attempted robbery to contact investigators through the department’s non-emergency line or established tips channels. Contact details are available on the Riviera Beach Police Department website.
