BOSTON — Boston police arrested a 51-year-old man Wednesday morning following an armed robbery at a convenience store in East Boston, while a second suspect remains at large.
Officers on patrol near Bennington and Marion streets were flagged down by an employee of East Coast Variety at approximately 8:22 a.m. on April 30.
The distressed employee pointed toward two male suspects walking ahead, according to police.
Officers detained Josein Cruz of Boston, who allegedly carried a firearm during the robbery while his accomplice wielded a machete.
During a pat frisk, officers recovered what appeared to be a firearm near Cruz’s right ankle, later determined to be a BB gun.
Police said Cruz attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended.
The suspects allegedly stole cash from the register and merchandise while damaging the register and taking both the victim’s cell phone and the store’s landline to prevent calls for help.
Items recovered from Cruz included an undisclosed amount of cash, an unscratched lottery ticket, nicotine pouches, an unopened brownie, and a cordless landline phone.
Cruz received medical attention for a non-life-threatening injury before being arrested.
He faces charges including armed robbery while masked, assault with a dangerous weapon, aggravated witness intimidation, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Cruz is expected to be arraigned in East Boston District Court.
Police continue to investigate and seek the public’s help identifying the second suspect.
