MOUNT VERNON — Two individuals approached a worker at a gas station located at 30 Mount Vernon Avenue on Thursday, Aug. 29, at approximately 5:30 a.m.
The suspects robbed the worker using what appeared to be a handgun before fleeing the location.
No injuries were reported, and the firearm was not discharged.
The Mount Vernon Police Department was notified shortly after the robbery, responded immediately to the gas station, and began a search for the suspects.
Due to the close proximity of the Bronx, the New York City Police Department was also alerted and provided with suspect descriptions.
At approximately 5:40 a.m., NYPD officers in the area of 29 Pearl Street observed individuals matching the suspects’ description.
While attempting to stop and identify them, the suspects fired at the NYPD officers.
One officer returned fire.
The suspects fled on foot.
Because the incident occurred adjacent to the Metro-North New Haven Line train tracks, the MTA was notified to shut down train service.
A large perimeter was then established in an effort to locate the suspects.
Officers from multiple local, county, and federal agencies responded to search for the suspects and investigate the gas station robbery.
During the investigation, the handgun used to fire at the NYPD officer was recovered along with additional evidence.
Surveillance footage of the robbery and the suspects’ flight was also obtained.
Using this information, investigators identified a suspect vehicle.
The vehicle was located shortly afterward, and a suspect was detained.
The suspect was transported to Mount Vernon Police Department headquarters and ultimately charged federally with Hobbs Act Robbery.
Additional charges are expected.
The second suspect has not been arrested at this time.
The case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call (914) 665-2510.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the TIP411 service by texting 847411 and beginning the message with the letters MVPD, followed by your information.
