LAPD Looking For Suspect In Melrose Avenue Armed Robbery

LOS ANGELES — Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Wilshire Division said they are looking for a suspect in a Tuesday afternoon armed robbery at a Melrose Avenue clothing shop, and the department is asking for the public's help in finding additional witnesses to assist in the investigation.

The robbery, which was caught on surveillance video, took place at approximately 12:20 p.m. at a store in the 7800 block of Melrose Avenue. LAPD Wilshire officers responded to the scene.

According to police accounts, the suspect entered the store and was approached by a male employee looking to provide assistance. However, the suspect proceeded to throw a couple of white trash bags at the employee, point a black handgun at him and demand that he fill the bags with clothing, shoes and money.

The employee, fearing for his safety, complied with the suspect's demands. Then, the suspect took the property and fled on foot, police said.

According to the LAPD, the suspect is described as a Black male between the ages of 25 and 30. He is approximately 5-foot-7 and weighs approximately 200 pounds. The suspect was wearing a black beanie, blue surgical mask, navy blue LA Rams hoodie and blue pants.

The LAPD has asked anyone with information about this incident to call Wilshire robbery detective Flores at (213) 922-8217. During non-business hours or on the weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).

Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous should call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or text to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD," police said.

Tipsters may also go to LAPD website, and click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.