Attempted Armed Robbery of Elderly Man Prompts Lockdown of Childcare Center

Three masked men allegedly tried to rob an 83-year-old man who was walking on the Ohlone pathway near Gladys Avenue this morning, El Cerrito Police officials said.

According to a statement released by police, the suspects produced a handgun and demanded his money and property, but were frightened away by another citizen before they were able to take anything from their intended victim.

“The victim although very shaken by the incident did not receive any injuries.”

All three suspects, estimated to be between ages 18 and 24, wore red bandanas to cover their faces during the attempted robbery.

According to police, the first suspect is a black male, about 6 feet tall, thin build, wearing a red hooded sweatshirt. The second suspect was a white male, about 6 feet tall, thin build, wearing a red hooded sweatshirt. The third suspect was also a white male, about 6 feet tall, thin build, wearing a red hooded sweatshirt.

Police say officers received a tip that one of the suspects was possibly fleeing in the area of Madison Avenue west of San Pablo Ave., which prompted the closure of Madison Ave. and the cautionary lockdown of a nearby childcare center.

“The follow up search and investigation determined the information received from the citizen witness was inaccurate.”

The investigation into the attempted robbery is ongoing, according to police.

Anyone who may have witnessed or has information concerning this crime is encouraged to call the El Cerrito Police Department Investigation Bureau at 510-215-4400.

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